As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepared for their 2025 training camp, one AFC North rival is dealing with a headache they never saw coming... and things may only get worse from here.
The Cincinnati Bengals, who narrowly missed the playoffs last season despite having one of the league’s worst defenses, made it a major priority this offseason to improve that side of the ball. They fired defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo and hired Al Golden, formerly Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator, to take over the unit.
With their first-round pick, they selected a pass rusher they hoped would complement Trey Hendrickson, who is currently involved in a contract dispute as he seeks an extension. Now, with their top draft pick holding out in a rare rookie standoff, the Bengals already seem to be regretting that selection.
Cincinnati Bengals' top draft pick Shemar Stewart is turning into a headache (and Steelers fans can only laugh)
First of all, Shemar Stewart was always considered a raw prospect, an elite athlete with all the physical tools but limited production at Texas A&M. He was clearly a developmental project for the Bengals.
However, with Trey Hendrickson’s future in Cincinnati uncertain, Stewart's role became more important. Now, things have taken a turn for the worse. Stewart is reportedly back at Texas A&M working out while holding out from his rookie contract, unhappy with how the Bengals structured the deal.
There are even rumors that he might sit out the year and re-enter the draft next season, though that scenario seems unlikely. Still, this situation already looks like a nightmare for both sides. In typical dysfunctional fashion, the Bengals appear to be mishandling another draft pick, continuing their failure to build a complete team around Joe Burrow and his offense, largely due to how cheaply the organization operates.
The holdup in Stewart’s contract centers around a clause. He wants a deal similar to what last year's first-rounder, Amarius Mims, received, one without a default clause that could void future guaranteed money.
Now, with the team’s best defensive player still holding out after requesting a trade earlier this offseason, and their top draft pick unhappy as well, the Bengals could be heading for another slow start. If the season goes in the wrong direction again, you have to wonder whether Zac Taylor will finally land on the hot seat.