As Bengals camp opens in July 2025, first-round pick Shemar Stewart holds out over contract language. Read why the DE is unsigned while Higgins gets paid.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The future has arrived in Cincinnati, but it's come with a bit of drama. As Bengals rookies reported for training camp today, all eyes were on the one player who wasn't quite ready to join them: first-round draft pick Shemar Stewart. The promising defensive end remains unsigned, not over dollars and cents, but over contract language, casting an unexpected shadow over the start of the 2025 season.
'I've never been a person to ask for more than what I deserve... They trying to do all of this is crazy.' - Shemar Stewart on his contract dispute.
It's a rare and frustrating situation. While the 16 picks ahead of him have all signed on the dotted line, Shemar Stewart and the Bengals are at an impasse over language concerning the voiding of salary guarantees. This isn't about the money; it's about the fine print, a sticking point reminiscent of the Roquan Smith holdout in 2018. Stewart, who has been training at Texas A&M, has been emphatic that he wants to be a Bengal, flatly denying any rumors of a return to college. Yet, until a resolution is found, the 17th overall pick can't practice, leaving a significant hole in the team's defensive plans as camp gets underway.
While the Stewart situation is a headache, let's not forget the major wins of this offseason. The front office locked down a critical piece of the offense, signing superstar receiver Tee Higgins to a massive 4-year, $115 million extension. They also bolstered the offense by adding tight end Mike Gesicki on a 3-year, $25.5 million deal and shored up the defensive line by re-signing anchor B.J. Hill for 3 years and $33 million. These moves signal a clear 'win-now' mentality and ensure that Joe Burrow's arsenal remains fully stocked for the foreseeable future.
These offseason transactions are built upon a solid foundation from last season. The Bengals finished 2025 with a strong 10-7 record, proving their mettle in the tough AFC North with a 4-2 division record. The offense was a juggernaut, averaging over 27 points per game. Joe Burrow was surgical, completing over 69% of his passes for 36 touchdowns. While the 55 sacks allowed are a concern, the team's firepower is undeniable. The goal is to build on that success, making the swift integration of the rookie class—including Stewart—all the more critical.
The immediate focus is clear: get Shemar Stewart signed and on the practice field. While this contract dispute is an unwelcome distraction, the Bengals' front office has built a formidable roster ready to compete now. The foundation is set with Burrow, Chase, and a newly paid Higgins. The question now is how quickly the team can resolve this rookie standoff and get all hands on deck for what promises to be another thrilling chase for the Lombardi Trophy.
