CINCINNATI — As the Cincinnati Bengals commenced their training camp practices, the absence of two key edge rushers due to contract disputes cast a shadow over the locker room. Notably, All-Pro Trey Hendrickson and first-round rookie Shemar Stewart failed to report, leaving their lockers untouched amid the usual bustle of preparation.
Quarterback Joe Burrow expressed disappointment at the holdouts, highlighting the importance of cohesion from the outset. “You’d like to have all your guys out there Day 1,” he noted. While Burrow acknowledged the frustrating nature of these situations, he also recognized it as part of the NFL’s business landscape.
The contract disputes stem from differing disagreements on guarantees. Hendrickson’s situation revolves around securing a raise from the $16 million he is scheduled to earn in the final year of his current deal, following back-to-back seasons where he led the league in sacks. On the other hand, rookie Stewart’s holdout relates to changes in contract language regarding future guarantees.
Bengals defenders have expressed more concern about Stewart’s absence, given his rookie status and the need for him to adapt to a new defensive scheme under defensive coordinator Al Golden, who took over from Lou Anarumo this offseason. The team outperformed expectations defensively on the first day of practice, leading Burrow to remark that “they won the day,” despite not having Hendrickson and Stewart.
Both players’ situations reflect the broader complexities of contract negotiations in the NFL. Hendrickson is viewed as a proven player looking for justifiable compensation, whereas Stewart’s concerns involve contractual conventions that have potential implications for rookie signings moving forward.
Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher emphasized the need for all top players to be present to achieve the team’s goals, voicing hope for a resolution. Fellow edge rusher Joseph Ossai sympathized with Stewart, stressing the importance of rookie training camps to refine skills and minimize mistakes.
As the team waits for both players to resolve their issues, the Bengals remain focused on building a strong defensive foundation, eager for Hendrickson and Stewart to join and contribute to their efforts when a settlement is reached. Their absence from the practice field may be temporary, but it reflects the often tumultuous nature of professional football contracts and the hope for a positive resolution is palpable among the team members.