Rookie Contract Showdowns: The Shemar Stewart Saga

First-round NFL picks usually sign their contracts without much fuss. However, this year, Shemar Stewart, a standout from the Cincinnati Bengals, is making waves. He skipped the mandatory minicamp and publicly voiced his discontent over his unsigned deal. This isn't the first time the Bengals have faced such issues. Remember Trey Hendrickson? He's currently in a standoff over his contract extension. But rookie holdouts? Those are rare birds since 2011. That's when the NFL introduced a rookie wage scale. This scale sets salaries based on draft position and guarantees four-year deals. For first-round picks, teams have a fifth-year option. So, why the holdout? The wage scale was supposed to end negotiations and holdouts. But, there are always exceptions. Joey Bosa, for instance, held out in 2016 over offset language and signing bonus timing. He eventually signed, won defensive rookie of the year, and became a five-time Pro Bowler. Then there's Roquan Smith, who missed preseason games and practices in 2018 over a helmet hit rule. He signed a contract that protected his guaranteed money in case of suspension.

Stewart is one of four first-round picks yet to sign their contracts. The others are Travis Hunter, Jahdae Barron, and Maxwell Hairston. Most rookies sign closer to training camp, so no need to hit the panic button just yet. However, Stewart's case is different. He's not just about the money. He's got a beef with the default language in his contract. This language kicks in if he defaults on the contract. The Bengals want to change it, and Stewart isn't having it. He's the only unsigned first-round pick who refused to sign the practice waiver, choosing to sit out instead. This waiver protects players from injury during practice. So, what's the big deal with this default language? It's all about guaranteed money and what happens if Stewart can't fulfill his contract. The Bengals have a history of structuring guarantees differently, which makes Stewart's situation unique. He's not asking for something new but wants fairness in his contract. He's got a point. After all, it's not about winning arguments but winning more games.

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