Bengals team president Mike Brown took a firm stance on the unresolved contract situation involving rookie Shemar Stewart, calling the delay ‘foolishness.’ The comments, made during a recent team meeting, reflect growing frustration within the organization over the lack of progress in finalizing a deal with the wide receiver. Brown emphasized the importance of timely contract resolutions to maintain team stability and ensure players are aligned with the team’s goals.
Stewart, who was selected in the second round of the NFL Draft, has been waiting for a contract since the draft concluded in early June. The delay has raised concerns among team officials about the potential impact on Stewart’s development and the team’s overall strategy. Brown’s criticism suggests that the team is under pressure to resolve the matter quickly, given the upcoming season and the need to secure key players for the roster.
While the exact terms of the contract remain undisclosed, the situation highlights the complexities of player negotiations in the NFL. Team presidents often face challenges in balancing competitive needs with financial constraints. Brown’s comments indicate a shift in tone towards more direct accountability for unresolved issues within the organization. The situation could also influence how the team approaches future drafts and contract negotiations, potentially leading to more rigorous oversight and faster decision-making processes.