The Cincinnati Bengals were counting on big things from 2025 first-rounder Shemar Stewart this season. After Wednesday, however, they might be lucky to see him on the field at all.
During the team’s first open training camp practice, Stewart, selected No. 17 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, left on a cart after suffering an apparent left knee injury during 11 on 11 drills.
Video showed his knee bending at an awkward angle, and according to reports, after working with trainers, he was unable to put weight on the leg and was carted off the field.
Stewart was limited to eight games last season due to injuries, including a left knee in November that resulted in him being placed on injured reserve. He finished the year with one sack — recorded in Week 17 — but was expected to be a more significant contributor in 2026. Wednesday’s setback puts that in jeopardy.