Bengals Bolster Defense with First-Round Pick: Shemar Stewart Joins the Team

The Bengals have finally resolved their contract issues with Shemar Stewart, their first-round draft pick. After months of negotiation, Stewart has signed a four-year deal, marking a significant milestone for the team.

Initially, the Bengals and Stewart disagreed over specific contract language. This disagreement kept him from participating in workouts during OTAs and minicamps. It also lingered into training camp, but they reached an agreement that allowed Stewart to get on the field. The Bengals made changes to his signing bonus structure, which seemed to ease his concerns. Instead of following the original plan, Stewart will receive part of his bonus upfront, making the deal more appealing.

Stewart’s contract issues highlight a larger trend in the NFL. With recent statistics showing that rookie contracts are increasingly complicated, many first-rounders are now negotiating in a climate where financial guarantees can hinge on small details. This year, only one other second-round pick remains unsigned due to legal issues.

The Bengals’ situation got some attention on social media, with fans expressing relief that their top draft choice is now available. Many recognized the pressure Stewart faced as the “guinea pig” for new contract language.

In the grander picture of the Bengals’ defense, Stewart is stepping into a team that is eager to change its fortunes after a disappointing season. The Bengals hired Al Golden as their new defensive coordinator to overhaul their approach. Stewart could become a crucial player, especially if defensive star Trey Hendrickson remains in a contract stalemate.

Stewart’s college career showed promise, with a total of 1.5 sacks in each season. Scouts were impressed by his agility and build, predicting he could become a key asset for the Bengals. With the ongoing challenges in the lineup, both Stewart and his fellow rookie, Myles Murphy, will need to step up and make an impact as they adapt to the professional level.

As the Bengals move forward, it will be interesting to see how Stewart integrates into the new defensive scheme. He has the potential to be a decisive factor in improving a team struggling with past performance. Overall, securing Stewart is a positive step for the Bengals as they aim to strengthen their roster.



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