**Bengals Rookie Shemar Stewart Leaves Minicamp Amid Contract Dispute**
**Meta Description:** Shemar Stewart, the Bengals’ first-round pick, departs minicamp without a signed contract, citing a desire not to distract teammates.
**URL Slug:** bengals-rookie-shemar-stewart-minicamp-contract-issue
**Bengals Rookie Shemar Stewart Leaves Minicamp Amid Contract Dispute**
The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a growing rift with their first-round draft pick, Shemar Stewart, who left the final day of mandatory minicamp without having signed his rookie contract. The Texas A&M standout, selected 17th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, reportedly departed not due to the ongoing contract negotiations but to avoid being a distraction to his teammates who were actively participating.
Stewart has publicly expressed his frustration regarding his absence from the field, emphasizing that he is not asking for anything outside the norm for first-round picks. “I’m 100% right,” he stated to reporters. “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.”
The Bengals are reportedly attempting to modify the structure of their first-round rookie contracts, which could allow the team to void future guarantees. Stewart believes that his contract should not differ from that of Amarius Mims, last year’s first-round pick, who did not have similar language in his deal. Notably, Stewart was drafted higher than Mims, adding to the complexity of the situation.
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor acknowledged the ongoing communication with Stewart before his departure from camp. He remarked, “There’s a first for everything. Every year, you kinda learn something new in this position, and this is just one of those things that the players have managed really well. We keep the team moving, and when he jumps on the field, that’ll be great for our team.”
Before leaving minicamp, Stewart was engaged in team meetings and studying the playbook, recognizing the importance of on-field preparation. “You gotta get your body somewhat prepared to play football, especially me coming from college. The NFL is a way physical game, even though I played in the SEC, which is very physical. Nothing compares to actually playing in the NFL. I thought I’d be on the field by now,” he explained.
Stewart, known for his raw athletic talent, is eager to develop his skills as an outside linebacker in Cincinnati. Despite the ongoing contract issues, he remains optimistic about his future with the franchise, stating, “I’m still new here.”
**FAQ**
**Q: What is the reason for Shemar Stewart’s absence from minicamp?**
A: Shemar Stewart left minicamp without a signed contract, stating he did not want to distract his teammates, although his contract negotiations with the Bengals remain unresolved.
