
Shemar Stewart Calls Out Bengals Over Contract Woes: 'You Just Want to Win Arguments!'
2025-06-10
Author: Yan
Rookie Unrest: Shemar Stewart's Bold Stand
Cincinnati Bengals' first-round draft pick Shemar Stewart isn't holding back his frustrations. The No. 17 pick in this year's NFL Draft has yet to sign his contract and, due to this impasse, he’s missing out on crucial practice time.
Contract Impasse: What's Going On?
In a candid conversation following a minicamp on June 10, Stewart expressed his disappointment with the Bengals’ front office, claiming they want to alter the contract terms that would affect future guarantees for first-round picks. This unsettling development has left him sidelined and questioning his place on the team.
Stewart's Demands: Fair Treatment or Justified Change?
Stewart is advocating for contract language akin to that of the Bengals' previous first-round selections, particularly requesting to align his terms with those of Amarius Mims (18th overall pick) and Myles Murphy (28th overall pick). He argues that he deserves better treatment, especially since he was drafted higher than both players.
The Bigger Picture: Bengals' Contract Strategy?
As it stands, every first-round pick before Stewart—except for the No. 2 overall pick Travis Hunter—has inked their deals. That leaves only five rookies unsigned, with Stewart at the center of this contract controversy. While the Bengals seem inclined to change their rookie contract strategies, Stewart isn’t about to be the first one subjected to these new terms.
Stewart Remains Engaged While Awaiting a Deal
Despite his contract issues, Stewart continues attending meetings and has been present for all practices, though he is absent from the on-field drills. His frustration is palpable; he admits he feels constrained in what he can say regarding the team’s rationale behind the contract changes.
A Call to Action: 'It's About Winning, Not Arguments'
“I can’t say what I really want to say,” he lamented, noting that he feels justified in his demands. In a striking remark directed at the Bengals, he added, "I'm not asking for anything y'all have never done before. But in y'all's case, you just want to win arguments more than winning games."
As negotiations continue, the spotlight is on both Stewart and the Bengals—will they resolve their differences in time for the season, or will this contract dispute leave a lasting impact on the team's dynamics?