In a move that speaks volumes about team camaraderie, Cincinnati Bengals edge rusher Shemar Stewart willingly parted ways with his No. 97 jersey this offseason—handing it over to newly acquired defensive powerhouse Dexter Lawrence. The gesture, as Stewart himself described, came with a small price tag and a whole lot of respect.

When Lawrence reached out about the number, Stewart didn’t hesitate. According to an interview with WCPO’s Noelle Blumel, the second-year defender set a "reasonable price" for the jersey. Lawrence’s response? A simple "Ok." But the real highlight came when Stewart explained his reasoning: "He earned that. I’m not gonna be the one to stop you from getting your number. You’re a walking legend."

It’s a moment that gives fans a glimpse into Stewart’s character—a player who values legacy over digits. And the story doesn’t stop there. Stewart has now switched to No. 94, a number with its own rich history in Cincinnati, including a nod to fan favorite Sam Hubbard. It’s a jersey that carries weight, and Stewart seems ready to fill it.

While the exact terms of the deal remain under wraps, it’s likely tied to the league’s jersey-change policy, which requires players to buy out remaining merchandise stock. But for Stewart, the cost was clearly worth it to honor a teammate he calls a living legend.

As Stewart charges into Year 2 with hopes of a breakout season, this small, selfless moment offers Bengals fans a deeper look at the man behind the helmet. It’s not just about the number on his back—it’s about the respect he brings to the game.