The Cincinnati Bengals are facing significant challenges even before the start of the NFL season, as multiple defensive linemen, including rookie Shemar Stewart and veteran Trey Hendrickson, remain absent from training camp due to contract disputes. As the team grapples with these holdouts, questions arise about the impact on their upcoming season.
Contract Disputes Shake the Bengals’ Defensive Line
The Cincinnati Bengals are dealing with ongoing contract negotiations as the NFL season approaches, significantly affecting their defensive line. Rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart is holding out, vying for a fully guaranteed contract. Meanwhile, veteran defensive end Trey Hendrickson has not reported to training camp as he seeks a more lucrative deal.
Hendrickson, who joined the Bengals in 2021 on a four-year, $60 million contract, completed the agreement last season after making an impressive mark with 17.5 sacks and earning All-Pro recognition. He has also been selected to the Pro Bowl in each of his seasons with the team. The Bengals permitted him to explore a trade in March 2025 after failing to reach an extension agreement, though negotiations are ongoing.
Negotiation Stalemate Over Guarantees
On the other hand, Stewart has yet to sign his rookie contract, which is valued at approximately $18.97 million based on his draft position. His holdout stems from a demand for specific language that includes fully guaranteed money. Bengals owner Mike Brown indicated skepticism towards Stewart’s stance, suggesting hypothetical scenarios that could complicate contract negotiations.
Trey Hendrickson is looking for more guarantees in his contract. (Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
While Hendrickson has traveled to Jacksonville for training, he seeks contract guarantees extending beyond the first year. Approaching 31, he faces the reality that the Bengals may be reluctant to commit to a long-term deal, especially given the potential for declining performance with age.
Looking at the broader landscape, Hendrickson is comparing his situation to star edge rushers like T.J. Watt, who recently secured a nearly fully guaranteed deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and others like Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders and Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns, who have also benefited from significant contract extensions.
Quarterback Joe Burrow expressed disappointment over the absence of both Stewart and Hendrickson, noting that following their Super Bowl appearance in 2022, the Bengals have only made the playoffs once in the subsequent three years. Their ability to compete effectively in the upcoming season could be jeopardized without both players bolstering the defensive line.
As this situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how long these holdouts will last. Both Stewart and Hendrickson appear prepared to sacrifice critical preparation time—and potentially regular-season games—to secure their desired contracts.
Meet William, a proud Bethel University alumnus with a fervent passion for lifestyle and culture topics. His keen interest doesn’t stop there; he’s also deeply engrossed in current events of all kinds. William dedicates himself wholeheartedly to this site, thriving on the collaborative energy he shares with Suzanne, his long-standing partner in crime.
Having navigated their university courses side by side for years, their teamwork on the site is nothing short of dynamic. Together, they bring a unique blend of insights, proving that two heads are indeed better than one in delivering compelling content.
