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Cincinnati Bengals GM Takes Hard Stance on Shemar Stewart, Trey Hendrickson
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- Cincinnati Bengals GM Takes Hard Stance on Shemar Stewart, Trey Hendrickson
Barry Reeger-Imagn Images Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
The first Cincinnati Bengals training camp practice kicks off July 23, and the team still doesn't know what to expect from Trey Hendrickson and rookie first-round pick Shemar Stewart . While both are pass-rushers seeking a contract, their situations are much different.
Nevertheless, both players' agents find themselves haggling with the Bengals' front office over dollars and cents, but part of this fight doesn't make much sense.
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After all, each and every other college football prospect selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft has already been signed, except for Stewart. Yet, the team is still trying to avoid certain clauses in Stewart's contract, and according to Bengals general manager Duke Tobin, the rookie "needs to be here" in Cincinnati for training camp.
"He needs to be here. I would encourage him to be here. … He's listening to the advice he's paying for (from his agents). I don't understand the advice … We're treating him fairly."
To no surprise, Tobin also addressed the other elephant in the room with Hendrickson entering the final year of his contract, yet seeking a raise after leading the NFL with 17.5 sacks. Despite the first-team All-Pro's standout performance, Tobin believes it's time for Hendrickson to get to camp, whether he gets a new deal from the Bengals or not.
"We believe everyone under contract should be here for camp. He's an important part of our team. … He's a guy who has been very valuable. He has earned a raise and extension. We'll see if we can come together on something."
In other words, if Stewart or Hendrickson expected the Bengals to call their bluff once training camp arrived, it looks like the pass-rushers will have to hold out a bit longer to get what they want.
Related: Will Levis Out for Season: 5 Replacement QB Options
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