As we draw closer to the start of the 2025 NFL season, media and insiders have continued to give updates on all 32 teams.
From free agency moves to contract extensions and rookie spotlights, there's been no shortage of buzz around the league.
The Cincinnati Bengals have been one team with a lot of drama taking place within their organization.
At the beginning of the offseason before finally extending them, Bengals receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins were having contract disputes that were eventually dealt with.
Cincinnati Bengals WRs Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase.
Cincinnati Bengals WRs Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase.
Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Fast forward to now, in mid-May, more news has come out on problems on the defensive side of the ball.
While 2024 NFL sack leader Trey Hendrickson continues to hold out for a new contract extension, even rookies are facing challenges in trying to find the right price in their rookie deals.
Cincinnati's first-round pick, Shemar Stewart, was seen in early May not partaking in the Bengals' offseason workouts.
"I just decided not to sign those papers. I hate being on the sidelines looking at everybody else do work," Stewart said on May 9.
Just over a week later, phase two of offseason workouts began and word's spread that Stewart is still holding out on his rookie deal.
"Due to a disagreement over contract language in his rookie deal," NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported on X.
It seems that the Bengals are having a difficult time trying to pay players, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
Even before Shemar Stewart has played in a single snap for his new team, he's having a tough time coming to an agreement with the Bengals' front office.
He was drafted No. 17 overall in last month's draft after playing three seasons for Texas A&M.
In three years for the Aggies, he compiled 65 totals tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks in 37 games played.