Cincinnati’s practice surfaced a sharp reminder of football’s balance between aggression and safety when rookie Shemar Stewart clipped Joe Burrow during 11-on-11, triggering a scuffle as Bengals linemen stood up for their quarterback. The moment underscored how fragile the pocket can be in camp and how much the team emphasizes protecting Burrow, who navigated a league-leading 4,918 passing yards and 43 TDs in 2024 despite absorbing a heavy hit load.

The front line responded with accountability as centers and guards pledged better protection, stressing that Burrow’s health remains paramount to replicating last season’s production. Stewart’s high-energy rush is seen as a tangible upside for Cincinnati’s defense if tempered with discipline, while Burrow’s supporting cast and coaching staff aim to keep No. 9 upright this fall.

Stewart’s late start from a rookie holdout adds a learning curve to camp, but the Bengals trust his talent will translate into pressure without compromising Burrow’s health. For fantasy audiences, the dynamic remains Burrow at the core; the line’s improvement and Stewart’s growth will likely determine how frequently Burrow can push the ball downfield in 2025.

The Cincinnati Bengals practice scene turned tense after Joe Burrow was knocked down by Shemar Stewart, a rookie first‑round pick, sparking a brief team scuffle. Lucas Patrick started the shoving match, and Stewart swung at Patrick’s helmet before teammates swarmed in. Burrow left the play uninjured, but the moment underscored a clash between Cincinnati’s offensive line and its aggressive, rebuilt defensive line. Ted Karras acknowledged the O‑line’s surge in intensity, while deeming the skirmish manageable. The episode also hints at a defensive uptick under new coordinator Al Golden, with Stewart and fellow rookie Demetrius Knight Jr. among the new faces.)

Trey Hendrickson, a prominent defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals, has officially reported to training camp, concluding a brief holdout. This comes just days after the Bengals resolved a contract issue with rookie edge rusher Shemar Stewart. Hendrickson's holdout stemmed from dissatisfaction with the Bengals' initial contract extension offer, which he deemed 'atrociously low.' As he enters the final year of his contract, Hendrickson is set to earn $16 million in 2025, a considerable amount reflecting his status as one of the league's top sack artists.

The Bengals are integrating Hendrickson back into their training routines after he missed the first week of camp. His presence is critical for a Bengals defense that relies heavily on his pass-rushing prowess. The team has focused on bolstering its defensive line, and Hendrickson's return is expected to enhance their playoff aspirations. Fans are eager to see how he performs in this pivotal contract year, especially after a season where he was one of the NFL's elite in sacks.