Elko: Unsigned Bengals pick not returning to A&M
Ben Baby
created: July 17, 2025, 7:13 p.m. | updated: July 18, 2025, 3:14 a.m.
Open Extended ReactionsTexas A&M coach Mike Elko on Thursday quashed any speculation about Cincinnati Bengals rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart potentially seeking a return to college amid a contract dispute with the NFL team.
However, despite speculation, Stewart will indeed be swapping his Aggies' maroon-and-white jersey for the Bengals' orange-and-black one.
Earlier this week, speculation was raised about the possibility of Stewart returning to Texas A&M for his final year of NCAA eligibility -- a move that likely would have required a lawsuit against the collegiate governing body.
A source close to Stewart told ESPN earlier in the week that, although it was a possibility, the most desirable outcome was to play for the Bengals this season.
Stewart and linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr., the team's second-round pick, are the lone members of Cincinnati's draft class to remain unsigned.
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