Are Tensions Too High for a Resolution in Cincinnati?

Shemar Stewart was selected No. 17 overall by the Cincinnati Bengals, yet as minicamp comes to a close, he has yet to set foot on the practice field. The situation between the Bengals and their promising defensive end is anything but routine. Stewart opted out of participating in offseason workouts due to a contract dispute, though he did attend sessions without taking part—until Thursday, when, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, he abruptly left camp. This standoff shows no signs of resolution, fueling a narrative familiar to many around the league: the Bengals once again find themselves entrenched in contract conflicts.

Compounding Cincinnati’s challenges, the team is also facing a standoff with Trey Hendrickson, who led the NFL in sacks last season and has made it clear he will not play under his current deal. This pattern isn’t new for the Bengals; just last March, All-Pro safety Jessie Bates III departed the team following prolonged contract disagreements. These recurring disputes suggest a club culture that doesn’t feel strongly about heeding players' wishes when it comes to finances.

On the other side, Stewart and his agent, Zac Hiller, seem equally steadfast, creating what could be a catastrophic stalemate. Several league insiders have noted the precarious position Stewart faces: an extended holdout can seriously jeopardize the career of a young pass rusher eager to make his mark. Nonetheless, many believe that cooler heads tend to prevail once training camp fully kicks off, leaving some hope that both parties will eventually reach a compromise before the regular season looms.

In the meantime, Cincinnati’s saga serves as a reminder of the complex balancing act teams and players must navigate when it comes to contracts, expectations, and career ambitions.