The Cincinnati Bengals have all their rookies in training camp, except for first-round pick Shemar Stewart. The team’s top pick remains unsigned despite several of his teammates’ rookie deals being finalized earlier this week. According to reports, Stewart is trying to overcome contract obstacles related to bonus structure and a new clause that changes guaranteed money default language compared to other past Bengals first-round picks.
Stewart will receive 75% of his signing bonus upfront in the newly agreed-upon deal, but he has not gotten a similar signing bonus payout offer as Demetrius Knight Jr. The rookie’s situation remains uncertain, with no progress made toward a deal.
The Bengals’ rookies have reported to camp, but Stewart’s unsigned status means he cannot practice with the team until his contract is signed. This follows reports of other teams’ rookies also facing similar challenges in signing their deals ahead of training camp.
Source: https://www.si.com/nfl/bengals/news/bengals-first-round-pick-remains-unsigned-as-rookies-report-for-training-camp-01k0f3tf8a5y