The Stone Shields Show | Daily Sports Talk

The Stone Shields Show is a daily sports podcast covering the biggest stories from across the sports world.

Hosted by Stone Shields, the show delivers reactions, analysis, and opinions on the latest headlines in the NFL, MLB, NBA, college football, college basketball, and more. While rooted in Cincinnati sports, the show also explores the national stories, debates, and moments shaping the sports landscape every day.

New episodes released Monday through Friday.

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Episodes

Wednesday Jun 10, 2026

On today's show, we discuss the Bengals' restructuring Joe Burrow's contract and subsequently creating $10 million in extra cap space. Plus, the Reds finally win a game after a solid bullpen effort and Sal Stewart's heroics. Also, should Tampa Bay extend Baker Mayfield?
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The Cincinnati Bengals made one of the most significant financial moves of their 2026 offseason on Tuesday by restructuring the contract of franchise quarterback Joe Burrow. The move created approximately $10 million in additional salary-cap space, giving Cincinnati much-needed flexibility as it continues an aggressive effort to upgrade the roster after missing the playoffs for a third consecutive season.
Burrow originally signed a five-year, $275 million extension in September 2023, a deal that included more than $219 million in guarantees and made him one of the NFL’s highest-paid players. Rather than reducing Burrow’s actual earnings, the restructuring likely involved converting a portion of his 2026 salary into a signing bonus and spreading the cap charges over future seasons. This is a common NFL accounting strategy that lowers a player’s immediate cap hit while preserving the overall value of the contract.
The timing of the move is notable. Cincinnati entered the week with limited cap room after a busy offseason that included acquiring star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence and making several free-agent additions. The extra cap space moves the Bengals from near the bottom of the league in available cap room to a much healthier position heading into training camp.
Just a few weeks ago, reports indicated there had been no active discussions about restructuring Burrow’s deal, making Tuesday’s decision somewhat surprising. The move also represents a departure from Cincinnati’s traditionally conservative salary-cap management approach. Team executives have historically avoided frequent restructures, preferring long-term financial stability.
For Burrow, the restructure is another indication of his commitment to helping the Bengals remain competitive. By creating cap flexibility, Cincinnati now has more room to address roster needs, extend young players, and navigate the remainder of the 2026 season. While the move does push some cap obligations into future years, it signals that the organization is firmly focused on maximizing its championship window around its franchise quarterback.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

Tuesday Jun 09, 2026

On today's show, we discuss an abysmal 7th inning for the Reds in a 6-2 defeat against the Padres, how DJ Turner is setting the tone for the Bengals, Brendan Sorsby's eligibility and the Spurs taking Game 3 of the NBA Finals. 
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The Cincinnati Reds had this game exactly where they wanted it Monday night in San Diego. Through six innings, they had scratched out a 2-1 lead behind a solid outing from Andrew Abbott and appeared poised to snap a frustrating losing streak. Instead, one disastrous inning turned a winnable game into another painful defeat.
The unraveling began in the seventh. After Gavin Sheets tied the game with an RBI double, the Reds completely lost control of the situation. What followed was a sequence that perfectly captured Cincinnati’s recent struggles: three consecutive Padres bunts created chaos, defensive mistakes mounted, and a tie game quickly became a deficit. Samad Taylor reached on a bunt that produced the go-ahead run, exposing a Reds defense that seemed unable to execute even the fundamentals in a high-leverage moment.
The collapse didn’t stop there. Cincinnati’s bullpen and defense failed to regroup in the eighth inning as Taylor delivered a two-run single and the Padres added another insurance run. A 2-2 game suddenly became a 6-2 Padres lead.
What makes the loss especially frustrating for Reds fans is that the offense actually generated opportunities. Cincinnati collected nine hits but stranded nine runners and went just 1-for-7 with runners in scoring position. Time after time, chances to build on the lead slipped away. When the game tightened, the Reds lacked the timely hit that could have changed the outcome.
The 6-2 defeat marked Cincinnati’s fifth straight loss and continued a miserable stretch in which nearly everything that can go wrong has gone wrong. Injuries, inconsistent offense, bullpen issues, and defensive lapses are all contributing to a season that is beginning to drift in the wrong direction. Monday night wasn’t just another loss—it was a textbook example of a team finding ways to beat itself.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

Monday Jun 08, 2026

On today's show, we discuss how the Bengals got more good news after Myles Garrett was traded to the Rams. Plus, the Reds are in shambles after getting swept by the Cardinals, AJ Brown officially traded to the Patriots and remembering Chicago Bulls legendary broadcaster Stacey King.
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For the Cincinnati Bengals, the trade is still largely good news, even though Cleveland got a significant return.
The biggest reason is simple: Garrett was a uniquely difficult matchup for Cincinnati. He recorded the record-setting 23rd sack of his 2025 season against Joe Burrow in the season finale and had become the one defender who could completely alter the Bengals' offensive game plan.
Verse is an excellent young pass rusher, but he's not Garrett. Garrett was coming off a Defensive Player of the Year season and an NFL-record 23 sacks. Replacing that level of production is almost impossible, even with a player as talented as Verse.
The trade also signals that Cleveland is thinking more about the future than maximizing its chances right now. Acquiring draft capital and a younger edge rusher aligns with a longer-term roster build, while the Rams clearly made the move to chase a championship immediately.
That doesn't mean the Bengals should celebrate too much. The Browns didn't get fleeced. Verse is already a high-end young defender, and Cleveland added a first-round pick, a second-round pick, and a third-round pick. Several analysts have argued that Verse softens the loss considerably and fits the Browns' timeline better than a 30-year-old Garrett.
So the Bengals' view is probably:
Short term: huge win because Garrett is gone.Long term: less clear because Cleveland acquired a potential star in Verse and valuable draft assets.
If you're a Bengals fan, the best part isn't that the Browns got worse overall—it's that you no longer have to face Myles Garrett twice a year. That's a meaningful change in the AFC North.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow
 

Monday Jun 01, 2026

On today's show, we discuss Ja'Marr Chase breaking his silence at his youth football camp on his absence from Bengals OTAs and Cincinnati's offseason moves. Plus, Elly De La Cruz left Sunday's game vs. the Braves with a hamstring injury and Joey McGuire responds to Steve Sarkisian. 
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Elly De La Cruz gave the Cincinnati Reds and their fans a scare Sunday when he exited a 6-4 victory over the Atlanta Braves with right hamstring tightness. The injury occurred in the fifth inning at Great American Ball Park when De La Cruz drove a ball into right-center field that appeared destined to be an extra-base hit. As he rounded first base, however, he suddenly slowed, grabbed at his leg area, and retreated to first rather than attempting to stretch the hit into a double. Trainers quickly came onto the field, and De La Cruz was removed from the game as a precaution.
Before leaving, De La Cruz had been one of the Reds’ most productive players on the afternoon. He went 2-for-2 with a walk, stole a base, and scored two runs, helping Cincinnati avoid a series sweep against Atlanta. His departure immediately raised concerns because of his importance to the Reds’ lineup and his reputation as one of baseball’s most dynamic athletes.
After the game, De La Cruz sounded cautiously optimistic. Through an interpreter, he explained that he felt tightness while making the turn around first base and chose to stop running because continuing might have caused more serious damage. Reds manager Terry Francona echoed that sentiment, saying the club hoped the star shortstop had recognized the issue early enough to avoid a significant strain. An MRI was scheduled for Monday to determine the extent of the injury.
The timing is especially concerning because De La Cruz has been remarkably durable, appearing in 276 consecutive games and starting all 58 Reds games this season. Entering Sunday, the 24-year-old was batting .280 with 12 home runs, 37 RBIs, and 10 stolen bases, positioning himself for another All-Star campaign. Any absence would be a major blow to Cincinnati’s playoff hopes.
For now, the Reds are waiting on MRI results, but the initial reaction from both De La Cruz and the organization suggests cautious optimism that the injury may be minor rather than a long-term setback.
#Reds #Bengals #TheStoneShieldsShow

Friday May 29, 2026

On today's show, we discuss how much pressure is on Zac Taylor entering 2026, whether Joe Burrow should change his play style, Ja'Marr Chase's absence from OTAs, and a possible year 2 leap for Shemar Stewart. Plus, 3 Cincinnati Reds on pace for season-long awards and QB controversy in Minnesota.
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Entering the 2026 NFL season, Zac Taylor may be facing the most pressure of his tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals. While Taylor helped guide Cincinnati to a Super Bowl appearance and back-to-back AFC Championship Games earlier in the decade, the Bengals have struggled to maintain that momentum in recent years. Consecutive disappointing seasons, paired with growing expectations around franchise quarterback Joe Burrow, have many analysts wondering whether 2026 could be a make-or-break year for the head coach.
Several national outlets have already identified Taylor as one of the NFL coaches under the most scrutiny entering the season. FOX Sports and Bleacher Report both placed him near the top of recent “hot seat” rankings after the Bengals failed to return to playoff contention. Critics argue that Cincinnati has too much offensive talent to continue underachieving, especially with Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins still forming one of the league’s premier offensive cores.
The frustration largely stems from inconsistency. The Bengals’ defense regressed badly over the last two seasons, and questionable game management decisions have frequently drawn criticism from fans and media alike. Even though ownership has historically been patient with coaches, another losing season could force the organization to reevaluate its direction. Some reports have even suggested there is concern about keeping Burrow satisfied long term if the franchise continues to stagnate.
Still, Taylor retains support within the organization because of the culture he helped build after years of irrelevance. Players have consistently praised his leadership, and ownership values stability more than many NFL franchises. But in a league driven by results, patience can disappear quickly. If Cincinnati misses the playoffs again in 2026, Taylor’s seat may go from warm to impossible to survive.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

Thursday May 28, 2026

On today's show, we discuss the latest Bengals Ring Of Honor nominees and break down why the system is flawed. Plus, the Reds strand 17 men on base to drop the finale in New York. Also, Travis Steele inks an extension with Miami.
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The Cincinnati Reds missed a chance to complete a three-game sweep Wednesday night, falling 4-2 to the New York Mets at Citi Field. Despite plenty of opportunities, Cincinnati could not deliver the big hit when it mattered most, stranding 17 runners in a frustrating offensive performance.
The Mets struck early when Juan Soto launched a solo home run in the first inning off Reds starter Andrew Abbott. New York added another run in the second on a solo shot from Eric Wagaman, giving the Mets a quick 2-0 advantage. Abbott settled down after the rough start and kept Cincinnati in the game, finishing with six innings pitched while allowing three runs, only two of them earned. His outing snapped a personal four-game winning streak, though he continued what has been a strong month overall.
The Reds chipped away in the third inning when Nathaniel Lowe drove in a run with an RBI single. Cincinnati tied things closer again in the sixth after rookie Sal Stewart delivered another RBI hit. However, every time the Reds appeared ready to seize momentum, the Mets answered. Rookie Carson Benge proved to be the difference-maker for New York, collecting two clutch RBI singles, including an insurance run in the seventh inning.
Cincinnati’s biggest issue was situational hitting. The Reds repeatedly put runners on base but failed to capitalize, leaving scoring chances wasted throughout the night. In the ninth inning, the Mets nearly opened the door again when closer Devin Williams loaded the bases, but he recovered to strike out the final two Reds hitters and secure the save.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

Wednesday May 27, 2026

On today's show, we discuss another impressive outing for Chase Burns as the Reds have seemingly gotten their season back on track. Plus, Bengals practice takeaways from Dan Hoard ft. Joe Burrow, Shemar Stewart and Dexter Lawrence. Also, a Brendan Sorsby update as court date approaches.
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Chase Burns continues to pitch like one of baseball’s emerging superstars, and Tuesday night against the New York Mets was simply the latest example. The hard-throwing right-hander overpowered New York in the Major League Baseball matchup, leading the Cincinnati Reds to a convincing 7-2 victory at Citi Field. Burns worked 5 1/3 innings, allowed just two runs, struck out eight, and once again looked completely in control against a lineup featuring dangerous hitters like Juan Soto.
For most of the night, the Mets had no answers for Burns’ elite combination of velocity and movement. His fastball touched 100 mph multiple times, while his devastating slider generated swing-and-miss after swing-and-miss. According to MLB coverage, Mets hitters went just 1-for-7 against the slider with six strikeouts, continuing a trend that has made Burns one of the toughest pitchers in baseball to square up this season.
The only real blemish came in the sixth inning, when Soto launched a two-run homer to right field. Even then, Burns never appeared rattled. He attacked hitters aggressively, worked efficiently, and carried a one-hit shutout deep into the outing before Soto finally broke through. By the time Burns exited, the Reds had already built a comfortable lead thanks to timely offense from Elly De La Cruz, Eugenio Suárez, and Tyler Stephenson.
What stands out most is Burns’ consistency. The 23-year-old improved to 7-1 with a 1.96 ERA and has now won four straight starts. Over his last four outings, he owns a sparkling 1.54 ERA, and in May he has looked every bit like a future ace. The Reds believe they have a cornerstone pitcher, and performances like Tuesday’s are proving them right.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

Tuesday May 26, 2026

On today's show, we discuss Nick Lodolo looking like his typical self in a strong 6-inning outing vs. the Mets. Plus, are the Bengals thinking about cutting TJ Slaton to free up cap space? Shemar Stewart year 2 expectations and why Myles Murphy has the right mindset after Cincinnati decided not to pick up his fifth-year option.
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Cincinnati Bengals EDGE Myles Murphy enters the 2026 season with more pressure than at any other point in his career. Drafted in the first round in 2023, Murphy was expected to become a cornerstone pass rusher opposite Trey Hendrickson. Instead, his first three seasons have produced flashes of talent without the consistent dominance the Bengals envisioned when they invested a premium pick in him.
That is why 2026 feels like a true make-or-break campaign. Cincinnati already declined Murphy’s fifth-year option, a major signal that the organization still is not fully convinced he deserves long-term star money. The Bengals have also aggressively rebuilt the defensive line, adding veterans and drafting more edge rushers, creating immediate competition for snaps and future roster spots.
To Murphy’s credit, there were signs of growth late in 2025. He posted career highs in tackles and sacks while finally showing the disruptive ability that made him a standout at Clemson. Bengals coaches and executives still believe his best football could be ahead of him, but belief alone will not earn him a second contract. Production will.
The timing also matters for Cincinnati as a franchise. The Bengals remain built around Joe Burrow and an elite offense, but the defense has consistently held the team back during recent playoff pushes. Murphy now has a chance to become the impact defender this roster desperately needs. If he breaks out with double-digit sacks and consistent pressure, he could secure a lucrative extension and solidify himself as a long-term building block.
If he struggles again, however, the Bengals may decide to move forward with younger and cheaper pass rushers. For Murphy, 2026 is no longer about potential. It is about proving he can finally become the player Cincinnati drafted him to be.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

Monday May 25, 2026

On today's show, we discuss the Reds splitting their doubleheader with the Cardinals on Saturday: Is Blake Dunn trending towards being an everyday outfielder for the Reds? Plus, remaining Bengals free agent targets ft. Bobby Wagner & Joey Bosa and ESPN's Michael Wilbon isn't buying Joe Burrow's comments from last week.
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The Cincinnati Bengals have already made aggressive moves to improve their roster, but a few veteran free agents could still help push them closer to championship contention. Players like Joey Bosa, Bobby Wagner, DeAndre Hopkins, and Kevin Zeitler all make sense as short-term targets depending on Cincinnati’s remaining cap flexibility and roster priorities.
Bosa would give the Bengals another experienced edge rusher after losing Trey Hendrickson in free agency. While injuries have slowed him in recent years, he still flashes elite pass-rushing ability and would immediately raise the ceiling of Cincinnati’s defensive front. His Ohio State ties and relationship with quarterback Joe Burrow also make the fit appealing. Analysts have repeatedly connected Bosa to Cincinnati because of the team’s need for pass-rush help.
Wagner could address another major weakness: linebacker depth and leadership. Even at his age, Wagner remains one of the NFL’s smartest defenders and a reliable tackler. The Bengals’ defense has lacked consistency in the middle of the field, and Wagner’s experience could help stabilize a younger unit while mentoring developing players. Several reports have identified linebacker as an area Cincinnati still needs to improve.
Hopkins would provide Burrow with another dependable veteran target alongside Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Although no longer a dominant No. 1 receiver, Hopkins still excels in contested catches and red-zone situations. His presence could give the Bengals valuable depth and insurance in a pass-heavy offense.
Zeitler may be the cleanest fit of the group. Cincinnati’s offensive line has remained inconsistent, and the veteran guard is still respected for his toughness and reliability. With multiple guards departing in free agency, adding Zeitler could strengthen protection for Burrow while improving the running game.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow

Friday May 22, 2026

On today's show, we discuss the Bengals not going forward with a Joe Burrow contract restructure this offseason, a critical series for the Reds as they host the Cardinals this weekend, and Jerrod Calhoun landing a 5-star recruit from Princeton High School. 
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The rivalry always feels louder when the Cardinals come to town, and this weekend’s series at Great American Ball Park arrives at a pivotal moment for the Reds. Cincinnati returns home carrying some momentum after a much-needed series win in Philadelphia, where the pitching staff tightened up and the lineup rediscovered some late-inning punch.
From a Reds perspective, the formula is pretty clear: ride the energy of the home crowd, let the young stars create chaos, and pressure a Cardinals pitching staff that has been inconsistent despite St. Louis staying competitive in the NL Central race. Elly De La Cruz remains the centerpiece of everything Cincinnati does offensively. When he’s getting on base and forcing mistakes, the Reds become one of the league’s most dangerous transition offenses. Veterans like Spencer Steer and Tyler Stephenson also give Cincinnati needed balance against a Cardinals club that has leaned heavily on younger contributors this season.
The biggest encouraging sign for the Reds lately has been the rotation stabilizing. Andrew Abbott continues to look like the dependable anchor Cincinnati desperately needed, and the bullpen has shown signs of regaining form after a shaky stretch earlier this month. Terry Francona’s club knows these divisional games carry extra weight, especially against a Cardinals team that appears ahead of schedule in its youth movement.
The Cardinals will arrive confident, but this feels like an opportunity for the Reds to reestablish themselves in the division race. At home, with the weather warming up and the ball carrying at GABP, Cincinnati’s offense has the potential to turn this into an explosive weekend. If the Reds can grab Friday night’s opener and force St. Louis to play from behind, the atmosphere downtown could start feeling a lot like meaningful summer baseball again.
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Holy (Trap).
Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Track Name Exercise (Rock).
#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow
 

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