Look: NFL Network Insider Explains Holdup in Bengals' Contract Talks With Shemar Stewart

Stewart is one of three first round picks that haven't signed their rookie contracts. He's the only healthy player that hasn't participated in the offseason program.

The Cincinnati Bengals practice in the off season on Tuesday May 20, 2025. Bengals 2025 draft pick Shemar Stewart (97). / Phil Didion/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

CINCINNATI — Bengals rookie Shemar Stewart is one of three unsigned first round rookies from the 2025 NFL Draft class.

The 21-year-old left minicamp early on Wednesday. Contract talks between his representation and the Bengals are stuck due to default language that the team is hoping to include in the deal.

NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero shared the latest on Stewart and the Bengals, including where contract talks stand, why Cincinnati isn't alone in putting this language in contracts and what could be the key to both sides coming to terms on a deal.

Watch Pelissero's segment on the Rich Eisen Show below:

Interesting insight from Tom Pelissero on the Shemar Stewart situation and his contract talks with the Bengals.

Video: @RichEisenShow pic.twitter.com/HRmpaAzt0n

— Bengals Talk (@BengalsTalkSI) June 13, 2025

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