The Cincinnati Bengals are in a contract dispute with their 2025 first-round draft pick, defensive end Shemar Stewart, over contract language concerning the voiding of guarantees. The Bengals want to clarify that a default in any year nullifies future guarantees, despite having used different language in a similar contract last year. This disagreement has caused Stewart to miss the offseason program, and potentially training camp, hindering his preparation for the season. The Bengals' insistence on altering established contract practices risks jeopardizing their team's performance, as demonstrated by their playoff loss in 2024.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.