Quietly in the background, though, is second-round pick Demetrius Knight Jr. fighting for a starting gig next to Logan Wilson. Knight, who has made a point to learn from Joe Burrow as he goes, continues to make a push alongside new arrival Oren Burks, the veteran the Bengals signed in free agency.

Shemar Stewart is refusing to practice until the Bengals remove uncharacteristic language from his rookie contract, and says his teammates support this decision.

Amid contract disputes with rookie pass-rusher Shemar Stewart and All-Pro pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson, the Cincinnati Bengals have reportedly gained a reputation within the NFL for being tough negotiators.