**Bengals Rookie Shemar Stewart Sparks Training Camp Tensions**
**Meta Description:** Cincinnati Bengals rookie Shemar Stewart’s actions during training camp lead to a scuffle, raising concerns about quarterback protection and contract negotiations.
**URL Slug:** bengals-rookie-shemar-stewart-training-camp-scuffle
**Bengals Rookie Shemar Stewart Sparks Training Camp Tensions**
Cincinnati Bengals rookie first-round pick Shemar Stewart was at the center of a heated moment during training camp on Wednesday. While participating in 11-on-11 drills, Stewart lost his balance and collided with quarterback Joe Burrow, sending him to the ground. In NFL training camps, protecting the quarterback is paramount to prevent injuries, and even though Stewart’s fall was unintentional, it ignited frustration among the offensive linemen.
The incident was captured on video, although it did not escalate into a serious altercation. Following practice, several offensive linemen voiced their concerns regarding Stewart’s actions. Center Ted Karras emphasized the importance of being cautious, stating, “Just be smarter…great player, [but] that’s all of our hopes and dreams right there. We’ve got to be better, too. That’s on us.” Right guard Lucas Patrick echoed this sentiment, taking some responsibility for the situation: “Gotta protect No. 9. Starts with me up front. I gotta play better and protect better, but you can’t let No. 9 get hit.”
Stewart had already been in the spotlight during Bengals training camp due to delays in signing his rookie contract, which stemmed from negotiations over guarantee language. He had previously missed mandatory minicamp over this issue, but after the recent tensions, the 17th overall pick finally reached an agreement on his deal.
The Bengals were reportedly looking to modify the structure of their first-round rookie contracts, aiming to allow the team to void future guarantees. Stewart had expressed his stance on the matter, asserting, “I’m 100% right. I’m not asking for nothing y’all (the Bengals) have never done before. But in y’all case, y’all just want to win arguments (more) than winning more games.”
Despite attending meetings during minicamp, Stewart had not participated in on-field activities, which concerned Bengals executive Duke Tobin. “I think Shemar needs to be here,” Tobin remarked. “I’m not going to blame Shemar. He is listening to the advice he is paying for. I don’t understand or believe or agree with the advice, but I’m not the one paying for it.”
Stewart made his presence felt on the field, recording his first NFL tackle in the Bengals’ preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles last week.
**FAQ**
**What happened during the Bengals training camp involving Shemar Stewart?**
Shemar Stewart accidentally collided with quarterback Joe Burrow during drills, leading to tensions among teammates, particularly the offensive line, who emphasized the need to protect the quarterback.
