Shemar Stewart Has Reportedly Left Bengals’ Necessary Minicamp

The Cincinnati Bengals and Shemar Stewart’s contract dispute has gotten to the subsequent stage.

The rookie defensive finish, who was the No. 17 total choose within the 2025 NFL Draft, didn’t take part within the first day of obligatory minicamp.

Now, he’s reportedly not even there.

“Cincinnati’s unsigned first-round draft choose Shemar Stewart now has left obligatory minicamp, per supply. Stewart had been attending crew actions, however with out a signed contract and with the Bengals asking for sure clauses, not,” ESPN insider Adam Schefter wrote on X.

Cincinnati’s unsigned first-round draft choose Shemar Stewart now has left obligatory minicamp, per supply. Stewart had been attending crew actions, however with out a signed contract and with the Bengals asking for sure clauses, not. pic.twitter.com/qeo492Z6As

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 12, 2025

Stewart has but to apply with the crew, and on condition that he’s technically not underneath contract, he’s not in breach of any settlement.

The Bengals reportedly have included new language that may enable them to void ensures in any 12 months of the deal.

They’re reportedly making an attempt to set a precedent beginning with this rookie class, and whereas different NFL groups have comparable clauses, they provide larger signing bonuses and more cash upfront.

Stewart is unwilling to budge and gained’t play for the Bengals till the deadlock will get solved.

He needs to signal a deal just like their earlier two first-round alternatives, offensive sort out Amarius Mims and defensive finish Myles Murphy.

So as to add insult to harm, celebrity defensive Trey Hendrickson isn’t taking part, both, as he seems for a brand new contract.

He’s referred to as out the crew publicly for weeks over his state of affairs.

After being one of many finalists for Defensive Participant of the 12 months and main the NFL in sacks final season, the Bengals’ already shaky protection would take an enormous hit if he decides to carry out.

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