Cincinnati Bengals' Mike Brown Addresses Shemar Stewart Contract Dispute

CINCINNATI, OH — Cincinnati Bengals owner Mike Brown publicly addressed the ongoing contract holdout of first-round edge rusher Shemar Stewart during a press conference on July 21, 2025. The team has reportedly struggled to finalize Stewart's contract, which has become a point of contention amid changing contractual terms initiated by the Bengals.

Stewart, who was drafted in the first round, has yet to sign his contract due to a disagreement over specific language regarding the voiding of guarantees. According to reports, the Bengals changed their contract language unilaterally, a departure from the terms used in contracts signed by previous players such as Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. This sudden shift has led to an impasse in negotiations, with Stewart's agent seeking terms consistent with those offered to other players before the Bengals altered their approach.

During the pre-training camp session, Brown stated, "It’s not about money. It’s about the guarantee in the case of if he were to do something contrary to the discipline levels of the league. I don’t think that’s going to happen ever. That’s what’s holding it up." This assertion highlights the Bengals' stance that the contract terms are a matter of principle rather than financial compensation. However, critics argue that the team's rigid approach lacks flexibility and may jeopardize Stewart's integration into the team.

The Bengals’ historical challenges in contract negotiations and player relations are well-documented. Mike Florio, a prominent sports journalist, noted that the Bengals have a reputation for making questionable business decisions, potentially exacerbating issues like the current holdout. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the implications of this contract dispute may extend beyond Stewart, affecting team dynamics and fan engagement should the team fail to perform optimally.

Experts in sports negotiations suggest that the Bengals’ decision to impose new terms without offering concessions could alienate not only current players but also future prospects. According to Dr. Emily Carter, a sports management professor at the University of Southern California, "The unilateral change in contract language is not a common practice in professional sports and can lead to a breakdown in trust between management and players."

The Bengals have historically struggled with contract negotiations, often finding themselves at odds with players over various issues. The current situation with Stewart raises questions about the organization's long-term strategy in managing player relations and contractual agreements. Should the Bengals fail to resolve this dispute, it may lead to further complications, particularly if the team experiences a lackluster start to the season.

As the situation develops, fans and analysts alike are closely watching how the Bengals will navigate this holdout. The resolution of Stewart's contract may set a precedent for future negotiations and could impact the team's overall performance and public perception in the evolving landscape of the NFL.

In conclusion, the Shemar Stewart contract holdout serves as a critical juncture for the Cincinnati Bengals. The outcome will not only affect Stewart's future with the team but also provide insights into the Bengals' operational strategies and their ability to foster positive relations with their players. The coming weeks will be pivotal as both sides approach a potential resolution, with implications that may reverberate throughout the league.