Thu Jun 12 13:20:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Bengals Rookie Shemar Stewart Holds Out, Cites Contract Dispute: “Winning Games Over Arguments?”**
CINCINNATI, OH – The Cincinnati Bengals face a double-edged sword as mandatory minicamp continues. While dealing with the Trey Hendrickson trade request, first-round draft pick Shemar Stewart is holding out from on-field activities due to an ongoing contract dispute.
Stewart, the No. 17 overall pick out of Texas A&M, has yet to practice this offseason, with reports suggesting the Bengals are attempting to set a new precedent regarding voidable guarantees in rookie contracts. He remains one of five unsigned first-round rookies across the league.
Frustration appears to be mounting on Stewart’s end. On Tuesday, he publicly addressed the situation, stating, “I’m 100 percent right. I’m not asking for nothing y’all have never done before. But in y’all case, y’all just want to win arguments (more) than winning more games.”
While attending meetings and studying the playbook, Stewart has refused to participate in practices until an agreement is reached. He expressed concern about falling behind in the physical aspect of transitioning to the NFL, despite maintaining his fitness. “It’s very important,” he said, referring to offseason work. “You gotta get your body somewhat prepared to play football, especially me coming from college. The NFL is a way more physical game… I thought I’d be on the field by now.”
Despite the impasse, Stewart insists the contract situation hasn’t soured his view of the organization. “I’m not going to say that. I’m still new here. We still have a long future ahead of us,” he said.
The Bengals have two days remaining of mandatory minicamp before breaking for the summer, putting pressure on both sides to find a resolution.
**Around the NFL:**
* **Chargers:** Veteran pass rusher Khalil Mack returns for a fourth season in 2025 to finish what Jim Harbaugh started in 2024. Jim Harbaugh continues to implement college customs, adding patches to practice jerseys.
* **Browns:** Diontae Johnson seeks redemption after a disappointing 2024.
* **Jets:** Breece Hall aims to become a workhorse under the new coaching staff.
* **Saints:** Chris Olave looks to bounce back after two concussions in 2024.
* **Packers:** Bo Melton embraces versatility, open to playing both wide receiver and cornerback.
* **Raiders:** Germaine Pratt signs a one-year, $4.25 million deal after being released by the Bengals.
* **Texans:** Nick Chubb says he’s “over the hump” in his recovery from a devastating knee injury.
* **Buccaneers:** Baker Mayfield seeks more big plays under new offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard.
For more NFL news, trades, and signings, visit NFL.com’s transaction hub.
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