The Cincinnati Bengals and first round draft pick Shemar Stewart aren't exactly getting off on the right foot.
Stewart has received advice from his agent not to take the field under the deal currently being offered because it introduces new language that would default guaranteed money. This language is also found in many other first-round picks' contracts, as well as veteran contracts around the NFL.
Amid the Bengals front office and Stewart's agent trading jabs today, former Philadelphia Eagles VP
of Administration Jake Rosenberg took to Twitter tonight to share his thoughts.
Few points on CIN/ Stewart-
— Jake Rosenberg (@jakerosenberg33) July 21, 2025
-What they’re asking isn’t unusual - it’s just a change
-It’s easier to take player side when fighting for upside- not protection of downside
-Even if guarantees void-$ can still be earned if on team- obv based on play
Not issue to hold out over.
I understand hating that it’s a downgrade in language from a prior year. But when you take it in its totality- and that it’s not a difference in total cash- he can be pissed and remember for next deal…but get to work.
— Jake Rosenberg (@jakerosenberg33) July 21, 2025
Defaulting is 100% in player’s control. Don’t do it.
It is an extremely rare win for Cincinnati's front office to be cast in a positive light amid contract disputes, but it appears even other executives view this as a silly holdout.
Stewart was already tabbed as a player with a high ceiling that would need plenty of reps to get things going at the NFL level. Fortunately, the pass rusher is at least staying in shape at Texas A&M for the upcoming season.
However, that won't replace the valuable reps learning the defense that he will be missing and falling behind the competition at defensive end with plenty of hungry players looking for opportunity.
It may be in Stewart's best interest to get on the field ASAP so he can potentially show how good of a player he can be. Then he can make all the demands he wants in his next contract.
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