The Cincinnati Bengals and offseason contract drama continue to go hand in hand. Each year brings a new set of players caught in limbo, and while stars like Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins have finally secured long-term deals, defensive end Trey Hendrickson remains in negotiations. Now, he’s being joined by a pair of newly drafted rookies.First-round pick Shemar Stewart and second-rounder Demetrius Knight Jr. were both present but inactive at Friday’s (May 09) rookie minicamp, watching from the sidelines due to unresolved contract details. Head coach Zac Taylor cited “contract stuff” as the reason for their limited participation. They remain the only two members of the Bengals’ 2025 draft class yet to sign their rookie deals.
Stewart, selected 17th overall and expected to make an immediate impact on the defensive line, addressed the situation after practice.
“I just decided not to sign those papers,” Stewart said. “I hate being on the sideline looking at everybody else do work.” He added that he hopes to have the issue resolved before Monday (May 12).
While rookie contract holdouts have become less common due to the National Football League‘s (NFL) slotted salary system, minor disputes still occasionally arise. As a first-rounder, Stewart is slated to receive a four-year deal with a team option for a fifth year, but minor details such as signing bonus schedules or guarantee structures—can sometimes cause brief delays.Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US Buzz, World and around the world.