Mike Elko: 'Zero chance' Shemar Stewart could play for Texas A&M in 2025 amid contract dispute

Amid his contract dispute with the Cincinnati Bengals, Shemar Stewart has reportedly been working out at Texas A&M, which led to the idea he could try to play for the Aggies in 2025. Mike Elko made it clear there’s “zero chance” of that happening.

Stewart held out of the Bengals’ offseason program after the franchise selected him in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He reportedly left mandatory minicamp as a result of the situation, which centers around clauses for which Cincinnati is asking in his rookie contract.

However, reports surfaced indicating Stewart could try to return to college despite forfeiting his eligibility when he declared for the draft. Elko made it clear that’s not the plan.

“Zero chance that that was ever considered,” Elko said. “It’s a great lesson for all of those about facts that can be created by social media. Shemar has been in College Station training, like a lot of NFL players do in their offseason. I think he actually just left yesterday to go back up to Cincinnati. We’re excited to see what he does for the Bengals this year.”

A report from CBS Sports indicated Stewart was working out at Texas A&M could consider attempting a return to the program in 2025 despite foregoing his remaining eligibility. NCAA and NFL rules, however, explicitly state he cannot come back because he declared for the draft.

“If you are three years removed from your high school graduation date, you may enter the NFL Draft one time during your collegiate career without jeopardizing your eligibility; provided you are not drafted by any team and you declare your intention to resume intercollegiate participation within 72 hours following the NFL’s draft declaration date,” NCAA Director of Enforcement Chris Howard wrote in a 2023 letter. “This declaration of intent must be in writing to your director of athletics.

“Student-athletes who enter the NFL Draft early are required to sign and have notarized a petition for special eligibility with the NFL, which renounces all remaining collegiate eligibility unless revoked within 72 hours of the draft declaration date.”

The Bengals drafted Shemar Stewart with the No. 17 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He is due to sign a four-year, $18.9 million contract that also includes a fifth-year option, according to Spotrac. Cincinnati is due to report to training camp July 22.