Bengals Stun NFL: Inside the Blockbuster Move That Could Redefine the 2025 Season

CINCINNATI — A scorching practice from Joe Burrow and a long-awaited rookie contract for first-round pick Shemar Stewart headlined a busy start to Cincinnati Bengals training camp as the AFC North contenders begin their push toward the 2025 season. Shemar Stewart inks fully guaranteed deal The defensive end out of Texas A&M ended his brief holdout by agreeing to a four-year, $18.97 million contract that includes a $10.4 million signing bonus, resolving language issues that had delayed his on-field debut. Stewart, the No. 17 overall pick, is expected to bolster a pass-rush group still waiting on Pro Bowl edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, who remains absent while seeking a new deal. Burrow, Chase & Higgins light up Day 2 After criticizing the offense’s sluggish Day 1, Burrow responded by completing a string of precision throws at Paycor Stadium’s Kettering Health Practice Fields. Highlights included a skinny-post touchdown and back-shoulder fade to Tee Higgins plus a perfectly placed sideline dime to Ja’Marr Chase, earning the quarterback “Player of the Day” honors from team observers. Burrow has targeted an even higher completion percentage this fall despite already owning the league’s best career mark. Hendrickson holdout looms While Stewart is now under contract, Cincinnati still has work to do with Hendrickson. The veteran did not report for the opening three practices, creating uncertainty opposite newly extended edge rusher Myles Murphy and testing the depth of defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo’s front. Team executives insist they “aren’t trading Trey” and are actively negotiating, but no timetable has been given for his return. New faces and position battles • Former Patriots tight end Mike Gesicki is already a fan favorite, signing autographs after hauling in red-zone reps with Burrow. • Second-year corner DJ Turner II has flashed sticky coverage on Chase, while 2022 first-rounder Dax Hill logged his first 7-on-7 snaps since an ACL tear, rotating in the slot. • Backup center Jaxon Kirkland and rookie DT Howard Cross III supplied the camp’s first scuffle as temperatures soared near 90°F, underscoring the competition for trenches depth. Attendance & fan information Eight practices are open to the public, including a Saturday-night session at Paycor Stadium on Aug. 2. Gates open 90 minutes before workouts; fans can register for free tickets through the Bengals app and should arrive early for shaded seating and autograph opportunities. Outlook With Burrow sharp, Chase healthy after an offseason extension, and Stewart finally in stripes, Cincinnati’s roster looks loaded—provided the front office can reach common ground with Hendrickson. For now, energy around the Queen City is high, and every rep at camp feels like an early snapshot of a team eyeing its third Super Bowl run in five seasons.