The No. 17 overall pick said he won’t practice until he signs his contract but has been present for each practice. A source with knowledge of the situation confirmed to The Enquirer that the reason for Stewart’s absence on the final day of minicamp was to not be a distraction to his teammates.

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor addresses rookie edge rusher Shemar Stewart's departure from the team's mandatory minicamp on Thursday.

The Bengals HC said he's had "good communication" with Stewart, but did not express confidence Stewart's contract will be signed by training camp.