Shemar Stewart Reflects on Training Camp Incident with Joe Burrow
CINCINNATI – In the aftermath of a controversial incident during Cincinnati Bengals training camp, rookie defensive lineman Shemar Stewart addressed the events surrounding a collision with quarterback Joe Burrow. The incident occurred during an 11-on-11 drill on August 30, 2023, when Stewart executed a defensive stunt that inadvertently led to Burrow being knocked to the ground.
Stewart, the Bengals’ first-round draft pick, explained that while he intended to loop inside from the left edge of the defense, a slip caused him to collide with Burrow. Center Ted Karras noted that the hit warranted a response from the team, and just two plays later, right guard Lucas Patrick confronted Stewart, igniting a scuffle on the field.
“I said, ‘You know, Joe, it was an accident. You know I never meant to do that,’” Stewart recounted. Burrow’s response was reassuring: “It’s cool as long as you do it on Sundays, too.” Stewart appreciated Burrow’s calm demeanor, stating, “He kept it cool and short and sweet, and we just forgot about it.”
Reflecting on the incident, Stewart expressed his regret but emphasized that it was a learning experience. “We know not to touch the main guy. I slipped. Next time I should just fall out of the way or something. I learned,” he said.
Describing the play, Stewart detailed how he lost his footing. “On the loop, the ground gave way under my foot, and I was just falling,” he explained. Following the incident, Burrow quickly resumed practice, demonstrating his resilience. The offense continued smoothly, but the ensuing altercation between Stewart and Patrick highlighted the intensity of training camp.
“It was just a lot of love,” Stewart joked about the confrontation. “A lot of passion on the field. You’ve got to get it out somehow.”
Despite his initial hesitation in practice following the incident, Stewart managed to recover and showcase his skills. During Friday’s practice, he executed an impressive move against Cody Ford, who was filling in for Amarius Mims at right tackle. Stewart approached Burrow without making contact, earning applause from the coaching staff. “If you have a one-on-one, you better win. And that’s what I did,” he said.
When asked about feeling nervous getting close to Burrow again, Stewart laughed, saying, “You didn’t see me? I had a little Matrix move.” His focus remains on improvement, as he emphasized the importance of “stacking days” and “getting 1 percent better.”
Stewart is now concentrating on preparing himself for the Bengals’ upcoming season opener against the Cleveland Browns on September 8, 2023. “I have to get in game shape,” he acknowledged. “Of course practice is meant to get you in game shape, but the only way you can get in game shape is to play in the game.”
With a commitment to improving his physical condition, Stewart mentioned that he has made significant adjustments to his diet and overall fitness. “I feel a lot better than when I first came in,” he stated.
As he approaches his twelfth practice, Stewart reflected on his growth since joining the team. “Coming in, it was just all raw talent,” he said. “Now it’s like you have to have technique to actually go out there and win consistently.” He emphasized the need for precise technique to succeed at the professional level, noting, “All those things work together and help you win the game.”
Stewart acknowledged that he faced challenges during the preseason, particularly against the Eagles, where he struggled to maintain focus on his technique. Patrick, who has practiced against Stewart, has noticed the young player’s rapid development. “His play speed is pretty significant,” Patrick remarked. “You can tell he’s starting to get comfortable.”
Interestingly, Stewart clarified that his immediate goal is not to become a starter. “Becoming the starter while being what I am right now, it’s not going to be the best outcome,” he said. Instead, he is committed to refining his skills and technique.
With the trajectory of his performance, it seems that Stewart’s aspirations may soon align with the role he envisions for himself on the team. As he continues to build on his experiences and learning, the Bengals are likely to keep a close eye on this promising rookie as the season unfolds.
