Shemar Stewart embraces optimism amid rookie challenges
CINCINNATI – Cincinnati Bengals rookie Shemar Stewart is acutely aware of the frustrations among fans regarding his debut season. It’s a sentiment he shares. “I don’t feel like I did anything spectacular this year,” Stewart expressed on Wednesday after his first practice since a knee injury sidelined him during the Bengals’ November 2 loss to the Chicago Bears. “It’s kind of a bummer because I had high hopes for this year,” he reflected. “But it’s all in God’s plan.”
Injury woes hinder rookie progress
The knee injury that placed Stewart on Injured Reserve marked the third significant stretch of inactivity in a challenging rookie season. His journey began with a contract dispute that kept him off the field during OTAs and the early days of training camp. When he finally got the opportunity to showcase his potential as the No. 17 overall pick, a series of setbacks followed.
In Week 2 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Stewart suffered an ankle injury, coinciding with Joe Burrow’s toe injury that would later keep the star quarterback out for nine games. This initial setback resulted in a four-game absence. Upon returning in Week 7, Stewart managed to play three games before the knee injury struck again. “Coming in and playing two games, then being hurt in the second game, and returning five weeks later only to get hurt again, it’s tough for anyone’s confidence, especially for someone like me who’s never been hurt before,” he said. “I never missed a game or practice in college. Missing 10 weeks here has been mentally challenging.”
A crucial opportunity for growth
Despite the adversity, Stewart recognizes the importance of consistent practice and game reps for his development. With Pro Bowl defensive end Trey Hendrickson sidelined for the remainder of the season due to core muscle surgery, Stewart is poised to see an increase in snaps when he comes off IR. Whether that return is against Baltimore this Sunday or in Week 16 against Miami, he is optimistic. “Playing four games in a row is going to be a big, big confidence booster,” Stewart stated. “I feel like the next couple of games will be very important for my development.”
Since Week 9, the Bengals have struggled, ranking tied for 21st in sacks with 10 and 17th in pressures with 43. Meanwhile, Myles Murphy and Joseph Ossai have stepped up, leaving room for Stewart’s versatility in defensive schemes, particularly on third downs.
Support from the coaching staff
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor emphasized that there should be no undue pressure on Stewart to make an immediate impact upon his return. Instead, the focus is on maximizing every practice rep and fostering growth for the future. “We’ve got high expectations for him, and he’s worked really hard to meet those,” Taylor said. “Unfortunately, he had the setback with the injury, which is out of his control.”
Taylor further clarified, “I don’t think there’s pressure to see anything from him in the next four weeks. We’ll see how he feels as practice progresses this week. If he’s able to get in a game, we’ll continue to progress him. The key is to keep getting better every single week.”
Aiming to leave a mark
Stewart has yet to record his first sack in the NFL, with only six tackles across 177 defensive snaps this season. Concerns about his production prior to the draft—just 4.5 sacks over three seasons at Texas A&M—have lingered. “Nobody wants to come to this level and not leave your mark,” he remarked. “That’s never been the player I wanted to be. I aim to leave a legacy and make a lasting impact on the program and the community.”
His determination to be engaged with both the team and the community underscores his commitment. “That’s very important for me,” he added. “That’s why I’m trying to get back, to be involved and put my best foot forward.”
Commitment to the team
Taylor commended Stewart for his dedication, noting his active participation in team meetings, which is not always the case for injured players. “He’s been great,” Taylor said. “These last couple of weeks, he sits right in front of me in team meetings. He’s attentive, and you can tell he wants to be back. Now, it’s a matter of ensuring he’s healthy.”
Stewart was listed as a full participant in Wednesday’s practice, marking a significant step in his recovery. The Bengals have yet to place Hendrickson on IR, indicating they are carefully monitoring Stewart’s progress. If he continues to advance through Thursday and Friday’s practices, fans may soon see him back on the field, with Hendrickson potentially heading to IR.
