CBS Sports’ Bud Elliot reports Bengals EDGE Shemar Stewart believes he can return to college football in 2025.

It’s the latest in a truly bizarre situation for Stewart, the 17th selection in the 2025 draft, who has held out of offseason activities amid a lingering contract dispute. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero said in June that Cincinnati’s rookie deal offer to Stewart “did not provide the same level of protection as [what] other teams give their rookies.” Stewart has reportedly attended offseason workouts with his former Texas A&M mates and believes there’s a path for him to return to the college level. The Bengals would receive no compensation for Stewart not signing with their team if they can’t get a deal done this year. Acme Packing Company’s Justis Mosqueda said, Stewart — if he does not sign his rookie deal with the Bengals — would be “free to enter the 2026 draft and would be eligible to be picked by any team other than Cincinnati.” The Stewart saga will continue into training camp, and likely beyond.