First-round pick Shemar Stewart has quickly become a source of frustration for the Cincinnati Bengals, as the rookie has yet to agree to contract terms. What is typically a routine signing process has turned into an unexpected saga, leaving the organization visibly dissatisfied with the ongoing standoff.
Currently, Stewart is the only first-round selection from this year’s NFL Draft who has not signed with his team. While an agreement was expected, recent comments from Bengals owner Mike Brown suggest that negotiations may be more complicated.
Mike Brown sends stern warning to Shemar Stewart
Cincinnati Bengals owner Mike Brown addressed the media regarding Shemar Stewart’s contract situation and how negotiations have unfolded. He spoke candidly about the stalled talks with the rookie, stating that, as of now, the contract “has never happened.”
Brown responded to reporters when asked about the hold up in Stewart’s contract negotiations. “The issue seems to be about guaranteed money if, in the event, he acted contrary to league rules or our rules, a criminal situation, something at that level,” he explained. Despite the disagreement, Brown added, “We feel there’s really no reason why it shouldn’t be signed.”
Brown emphasized that the disagreement isn’t about financial terms. “There is no dispute over the money,” he stated, clarifying that the issue centers on potential behavioral concerns. “It’s just a dispute, in his mind, that if he did something that really deserved punishment, he would want the whole contract guaranteed. And we would want to say, ‘Well, it isn’t guaranteed if you did something to that level.”
The owner of the Bengals had also time for sending a stern warning to Stweart in a hypothetical case, “I don’t want to pay somebody who, hypothetically, could be in jail for four years at this level of pay. Do I think any of that is going to happen?”
Mike Brown expressed clear frustration with Stewart’s stance, describing the situation as unnecessary and avoidable. “From our vantage point, it is a form of foolishness for this not to get done,” he said. Brown reiterated his desire to resolve the matter, adding, “That is why I use the word ‘foolishness.’ We want to get it done and get him in here working. He is a good young guy.”
Questions have arisen about whether this is the right way for a young player to begin his professional career. Stewart’s stance has sparked serious frustration within the Bengals organization, which is reportedly unhappy with how the situation has unfolded.
Another contract saga: Trey Hendrickson and the Bengals at a standstill
The Cincinnati Bengals are facing yet another contract dilemma, this time with star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, whose future with the team remains uncertain as he holds out in pursuit of a new deal. While the defender is seeking improved terms, team owner Mike Brown has expressed optimism on multiple occasions, suggesting he believes an agreement will be reached
Still, most of the spotlight within the organization remains focused on Shemar Stewart and whether he will ultimately sign his rookie contract or hold firm in his stance. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals continue preparations for the upcoming season, which will kick off with a tough preseason opener against the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles
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