“Just sit back and watch me work!” These were Shemar Stewart’s words when responding to criticism surrounding his modest college sack record at Texas A&M–just 4.5 over three seasons–during college years. Many may have taken this statement as mere bravado; for the Bengals however, it represented their trust in what they saw as an unrefined but highly potent talent ready to disrupt their defensive edge. After weeks of negotiations which nearly resulted in negotiations breaking down completely, his rookie contract now totaling an $18 Million deal after intense negotiations that nearly resulted in talks almost breaking down entirely!
On Thursday, discussions surrounding Stewart’s contract took a surprising twist when his father, Coach Moe, emerged. Through their discussion, Moe revealed an essential detail: Bengals willingness to compromise as part of finalizing an agreement – this flexible attitude ultimately leading both parties towards finding common ground after initially holding firm on their positions during negotiations.
Main issues hampering their agreement revolved around incentive clauses and guaranteed money, yet by shifting away from initial positions both parties were able to come to an amicable agreement that is now mutually satisfying for both. With training camp already underway and Stewart already making strides at training camp despite any negative perceptions cast upon his college performance despite detractors, both teams and Stewart himself remain focused on looking ahead, not dwelling on past performances and preferring instead for them to speak for themselves with his future performances.
Now officially part of Al Golden’s defensive scheme, Stewart enters the NFL under intense scrutiny; facing tremendous expectations to live up to considerable expectations while making his mark despite relatively understated college achievements.