As if the Cincinnati Bengals don’t have enough contract drama, here comes the impasse with second-round pick Demetrius Knight.

Knight and the Bengals have yet to agree on a contract. And it’s a product of a widespread new trend sweeping the NFL, with second-round picks near the start of the round getting fully guaranteed contracts for the first time.

This impasse didn’t stop Knight from practicing with the Bengals during the spring, but it can and likely will prevent him from working during trianing camp. Still unsigned, the Bengals can’t fine him it, either.

So now, the question is simple: Will the Bengals take their standard, stubborn approach with this contract too?

Knight was the 49th pick in the draft and the dominoes in front of the Bengals just keep falling:

After years of no second-round picks receiving fully-guaranteed contracts, the 2025 NFL Draft class is breaking new ground: The first eight picks of the second round are trending toward full guarantees — with six already finalized:

– 33. Carson Schwesinger – 100%

– 34. Jayden Higgins – 100%

– 35. Nick Emmanwori – 100%

– 36. Quinshon Judkins – TBD (currently dealing with off-field issues)

– 37. Jonah Savaiinaea – 100%

– 38. TreVeyon Henderson – 100%

– 39. Luther Burden III – 100%

– 40. Tyler Shough – TBD (likely headed for full guarantee due to QB leverage)

A major shift in NFL contracts.

With Trey Hendrickson threatening to sit out and first-rounder Shemar Stewart still unsigned, will the Bengals find holding their ground on Knight worth the additional headache?

It’s hard to say either way, but with the Bengals counting on Knight to step in right away and have a big role with Germaine Pratt gone, one would think the team just follows the new NFL precedent and gets this done.