Shemar, Bengals and personnelDuke Tobin
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The Bengals are trying to set a precedent that they can use in all future rookie deals. Second-round pick Demetrius Knight Jr. signed his rookie contract Saturday and signed a deal that had the language the Bengals wanted. Stewart is now the last one standing.
Stewart and Denver Broncos cornerback Jahdae Barron are the only two remaining first-round picks left unsigned. Bengals rookies are scheduled to report to training camp on July 19.
Bengals defensive end Shemar Stewart took a stand. Without his rookie contract in place, the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft was unwilling to participate in the team’s rookie minicamp. Despite the criticism he has received from some, it was absolutely the right move.
Adam Schefter breaks down Trey Hendrickson's absence from Bengals training camp, citing a contract dispute over guaranteed money requiring a compromise.