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Bengals Rookie Shemar Stewart Remains Unsigned Ahead of Training Camp

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Cincinnati Bengals' top draft pick, defensive end Shemar Stewart, has yet to sign his rookie contract, creating an unprecedented contract dispute between the team and the player. Stewart, selected 17th overall in April, has been absent from on-field activities, including voluntary workouts and mandatory minicamp, due to the team's attempt to set a new precedent with rookie contracts. As the Bengals' rookies report for training camp, Stewart's situation remains unresolved, sparking concerns about the team's readiness for the upcoming season.

Key Takeaways:

  • Shemar Stewart, the Bengals' first-round draft pick, remains unsigned as of Saturday, when the team's rookies must report for training camp.
  • The standoff is due to the team's attempt to set a new precedent with rookie contracts, which Stewart has refused to sign until the issue is resolved.
  • Stewart has been absent from on-field activities, including voluntary workouts and mandatory minicamp, since the offseason program kicked off.
  • He has spoken publicly about his preparation for the season, but has refused to do on-field work until the contract is finalized.
  • Stewart is the last of the 32 first-round picks still unsigned, following the signing of Broncos cornerback Jahdae Barron and Bengals draftmate Demetrius Knight Jr.
  • The situation creates uncertainty for the Bengals' defense, which is light on star power, and raises concerns about the team's readiness for the upcoming season.
  • The contract dispute may not be resolved before the start of the regular season, which is just a month away.
  • The Bengals also face contract discussions with reigning league sack leader Trey Hendrickson, who has expressed his desire for an extension or trade.

Statistics:

  • 17: The number of rounds in which Shemar Stewart was selected in the NFL draft.
  • 3: The number of weeks preseason games are scheduled to start.
  • 1 month: The time between the start of the regular season and the current date.
  • 32: The number of first-round picks still unsigned, with Shemar Stewart being the last one.
  • 17th: The position of Shemar Stewart in the NFL draft.

Sources:

  • NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo
  • Cincinnati Bengals website
  • NFL.com news article "Shemar Stewart Remains Unsigned as Bengals Rookies Report for Training Camp"

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