Elko: Bengals’ Unsigned Pick Opts Out of Returning to A&M – What This Means for Both Teams

Texas A&M coach Mike Elko recently put an end to rumors about Shemar Stewart, a rookie defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals. Despite speculation that Stewart might return to college football, Elko confirmed that he will be wearing the Bengals’ colors this season.

Stewart has been seen training with former Texas A&M teammates in College Station, but Elko reassured fans. “Shemar has no intentions of playing for the Aggies this year,” he said. “He’s preparing for his season with the Bengals and we wish him the best.”

This summer, there was buzz that Stewart might leverage a return to college for his final eligibility year, which would have required a legal challenge against the NCAA. A source indicated that while this was an option, Stewart was focused on joining the Bengals this autumn. “I’m not asking for anything that hasn’t been done before,” he stated in June about his contract negotiations, hinting at issues with guaranteed future money.

Stewart, who was the 17th overall pick in the recent draft, is currently the last first-round selection yet to sign. He has missed off-season workouts while trying to address contract details that are crucial for him. The Bengals’ rookie players are set to report soon, with practices starting Wednesday. Alongside Stewart, linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. is the only other draft pick still unsigned.

In an evolving landscape, it’s common for rookie athletes to navigate contract disputes. According to a recent study by the National Football League Players Association, around 29% of first-round picks in the last five years faced contract delays. This reflects a broader trend in the NFL, emphasizing the importance of contract language and financial security for new players entering the league.

Fan reactions on social media have highlighted the mixed feelings surrounding Stewart’s situation. Many supporters express excitement about his potential while others share concerns about his contract holdout. This buzz underlines the significant impact of player negotiations on fan engagement and team dynamics.

As the season approaches, both the Bengals and Stewart look forward to what lies ahead, hoping to resolve his contract issues swiftly. The focus now is on how he integrates into the team, strengthening a promising rookie class poised to make their mark.

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