Cincinnati Bengals team president Mike Brown expressed frustration with the contract situation between the team and unsigned rookie Shemar Stewart. The 17th overall pick in this year’s draft is the lone first-round selection to remain unsigned, with negotiations stalled due to a dispute over language in Stewart’s rookie contract.
The clause in question could void guaranteed money owed to Stewart if he engages in conduct detrimental to the team. Brown called it “foolishness” and stated that the team had never experienced such an issue before, which is holding up the contract.
Brown’s stance on the matter was echoed by Bengals executive Duke Tobin, who believes Cincinnati was likely the last team to implement this language into its contracts. However, Tobin did express some concern over Stewart’s agent, Zac Hiller, suggesting that he may have a vested interest in prolonging the negotiations.
Meanwhile, linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr., who signed his paperwork on Sunday, could potentially be a factor in resolving the impasse between Stewart and the team. A source familiar with the negotiations stated that similar terms were not offered to Stewart, which could have helped find an end to the standoff.
Trey Hendrickson, a four-time Pro Bowler, is also seeking a long-term deal ahead of his final year under contract. While it’s unclear if he will report with the remaining veterans on Tuesday, there is optimism from Brown that Hendrickson will be signed on favorable terms.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45788560/bengals-prez-brown-foolishness-shemar-stewart-unsigned