Bengals’ Shemar Stewart Leaves Minicamp Amid Contract Standoff

CINCINNATI, Ohio – Shemar Stewart, the Cincinnati Bengals’ first-round draft pick, has left mandatory minicamp amid a contract dispute with the team. Stewart’s departure was reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday, just before the last day of offseason activities.

Stewart, the No. 17 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has not signed his rookie contract due to disagreements over specific language the Bengals want to include. This language concerns how a default in the current year could affect future contract years.

Stewart stated earlier this week, “I’m 100 percent right,” regarding the contract issue, labeling the resolution as “something very simple to fix.” The Bengals previously used different terms in the rookie contract of Amarius Mims, drafted the prior year as the No. 18 pick.

Stewart hasn’t participated in any on-field activities since the organized team activities (OTAs) last month while he awaits a resolution. He cited concerns about being a distraction to teammates who are participating fully.

The contract dispute isn’t only affecting Stewart. Teammate Trey Hendrickson, who led the NFL last season with 17.5 sacks, has also been absent from minicamp due to his own contract negotiations. Both players’ situations have created tension as the Bengals prepare for the upcoming season.

The Bengals are set to reconvene for training camp in late July. If the contract disputes remain unresolved, they could impact Stewart’s participation and readiness for the regular season.