The Cincinnati Bengals still have not signed first-round pick Shemar Stewart to a contract, and it does not appear that the two sides are on the verge of a resolution.
Stewart was present for mandatory minicamp with the Bengals on Tuesday and Wednesday, though he did not take part in on-field drills. With no contract agreement in place on Day 3 of minicamp, Stewart decided to leave the team.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Stewart left minicamp on Thursday.
Cincinnati’s unsigned first-round draft pick Shemar Stewart now has left mandatory minicamp, per source. Stewart had been attending team activities, but without a signed contract and with the Bengals asking for certain clauses, no longer. pic.twitter.com/qeo492Z6As
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 12, 2025
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor confirmed during his media availability that Stewart was not at practice. Taylor said that he has had “good communication” and “positive conversations” with the former Texas A&M defensive end. When asked if he believes Stewart will sign his rookie deal prior to training camp, Taylor told reporters he was “not going to make any predictions.”
The Bengals drafted Stewart with the 17th overall pick this year. Stewart has reportedly been in a dispute with the team over language in his rookie contract that could allow Cincinnati to void future guarantees.
Stewart was asked about the contract dispute earlier this week and made some harsh remarks about the Bengals’ front office.
The Bengals have had their fair share of contract standoffs with players over the past two offseasons. Star wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins both skipped mandatory practices last year for similar reasons. Pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson has been holding out this year and is reportedly considering some drastic measures if he does not receive an extension.
