News Bengals Team Notes

[Cincinnati Bengals]

The Orange and Black Insider Bengals Podcast: Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins getting PAID

Sam Greene / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

HUGE news for the Bengals, as they are seemingly wrapping up two big contracts for both of their star wide receivers towards the beginning of free agency.

A moment a year-plus in the making has reportedly arrived. League sources close to Sports Illustrated’s James Rapien say the deals for Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are “done” and official signings are just a formality at this point.

It’s great news for the Bengals organization and a big relief for what was becoming an uninspiring start to their 2025 free agency period. The deals are reportedly going to be around a $70 million annual average value, with the team locking up its core three offensive stars for the long-term.

We’re going to catch you up on things and talk about the deals on a brief Saturday episode of The Orange and Black Insider! Join us for the live show at 8:15 p.m. ET, or catch it on your favorite platform afterward.

This episode is brought you in part by FOCO, the “Fans Only Company. One of their upcoming releases is a very special one, not only because of the players featured, but in the fact that it is a limited release of only 75 in production. Check out the Ja’Marr Chase/Carl Pickens Rookie of the Year bobblehead for pre-release purchase here.

Check out our podcasts here on CJ, the Bleav in Cincy podcast feed, Spotify, Amazon, our YouTube channel, and as always, on iTunes!

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...ast-jamarr-chase-and-tee-higgins-getting-paid

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Can you guess this Bengals wide receiver in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Bengals player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Bengals fans! We’re back for another day of the Cincy Jungle in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

If you can’t see the embedded game and you’re using Apple News, click this link.

Previous games​

Saturday, March 15, 2025
Friday, March 14, 2025
Thursday, March 13, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Cincy Jungle in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Bengals player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Who Dey!

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/16/24386991/sb-nation-bengals-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Ja’Marr Chase contract breakdown as he becomes the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history

Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

The Bengals front office kept their word.

The Cincinnati Bengals have officially given contract extensions to both Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, per Jordan Schultz.

The Bengals officially giving Higgins a long-term extension is a massive step forward for the front office (even if it took way too long), and Chase has officially become the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history.

Ian Rapoport reported on Friday that the Bengals were very close to extending the two wide receivers, while James Rapien reported Saturday that the deals are effectively done.

Schultz broke the news Sunday night with the official contract numbers, and the Bengals PAID their guys what they deserve.

Schultz reported that Ja’Marr Chase had signed a four-year extension worth $161 million with $112 million guaranteed.

YES, the Bengals have given Chase $112 million guaranteed, an insane but well-earned number for a guy who was arguably one of the 10 best NFL players last season.

Paired with his rookie contract’s fifth-year option — set to be $21 million — it comes out as Chase being under contract for the next five years at $182.816 million.

As Kelsey Conway notes, Chase significantly beat out the contract his good pal Justin Jefferson got from the Minnesota Vikings in terms of annual salary at $40.2 million to go with $2 million more in guaranteed money.

Finally, Joel Corry notes how the Bengals and Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles are the only NFL teams to pay two wide receivers $25 million annually.

The Cincinnati Bengals have officially bent the way they do things to keep Joe Burrow, Chase, and Higgins together for years to come.

Hello Super Bowl window, it is great to see you again!!!

The #Bengals were informed tonight that Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins were accepting their offers. The parameters were ironed out on Saturday. The players notified the team on Sunday night. An official announcement will be made this week. https://t.co/dOBTlqYZ7m

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 17, 2025​

the Bengals are 21-10 (.677) the last 3 years when the trio of Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase & Tee Higgins all play

the Bengals are 9-10 (.474) in all other games

a .677 win rate would be the #6 best record in the NFL behind:

#1 Chiefs .784
#2 Eagles .765
#3 Bills .740
#4 Lions…

— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) March 17, 2025​

WHO DEY!!

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...paid-non-qb-in-nfl-history-cincinnati-bengals

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Progress but not completion must be the theme for Cincinnati Bengals

Photo by Jeff Moreland/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Massive overnight deals proved to be a change for Cincinnati, but the job’s not finished.

This is old news by now, but if you haven’t heard…the Cincinnati Bengals did it. They signed Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins to massive contracts late Sunday night.

This makes Chase the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history and Higgins the highest-paid WR2 in history.

Both contracts are marked up for four years, totaling a combined $276 million. Next season, the Bengals will be using 44% of their cap space on their offense, similar to the Philadelphia Eagles, but with one small difference...we’ll get into that in a second.

Let’s take a second for a quick celebration.

The Bengals did something they’re not known for: They tied up millions in multiple players with guaranteed money, but the narrative isn’t over yet.

A team can have all of the weapons they want, but what’s that saying again? Defense wins championships.

We all knew this was one of the most important offseasons in recent history for the Bengals. They had several contracts to figure out and many decisions to make. As of now, the team has:

Released:​

• Sheldon Rankins, DT
• Alex Cappa, OG

Re-signed:​

• Joseph Ossai, DE
• Cam Sample, DE
• BJ Hill, DT
• Marco Wilson, CB
• Mike Gesicki, TE
• Cody Ford, OL
• Tanner Hudson, TE
• Ryan Rekhow, P
• Cal Adomitis, LS
• Jaxson Kirkland, OL
• Cam Grandy, TE
• Tee Higgins, WR
• Ja’Marr Chase, WR

Acquisitions:​

• Oren Burks, LB
• TJ Slaton Jr., DT
• Samaje Perine, RB

Departures:​

• Khalil Herbert, RB
• Akeem Davis-Gaither, LB
• Sam Hubbard (retired), DE

As you can see, there is no major movement besides Chase and Higgins, but there is still time for the Bengals to have at least a little bit of a splash.

What are we looking for to complete a very successful offseason?

The Bengals can still find a way to meet in the middle and sign their star defensive end and reigning sack leader, Trey Hendrickson. The stars haven’t fully aligned yet, but they seem to be getting close.

Sources: Cincinnati is working to retain Trey Hendrickson and discussions are ongoing between the two sides.

The Bengals are attempting to do what many in the league thought difficult and keep — and pay — all three of their stars. pic.twitter.com/3fQjvqjwZg

— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 17, 2025​

But let’s take a quick step back for a second. Many fans expected the team to be very involved in free agency, and that was a complete letdown. While other teams seemed to be in the news every day making multiple moves, to date, the Bengals have only signed three people. There are still a few glaring holes, with only a very few options still available. If the season started today, they would be missing an offensive guard.

Still available:

• Brandon Scherff
• Shaq Mason
• Will Hernandez
• Dalton Risner
• Teven Jenkins
• Liam Eichenberg

The Bengals have mainly been connected to Scherff and Jenkins, the latter of whom is supposed to meet with the Seahawks today, which can potentially be yet another missed opportunity.

Despite re-signing two of their defensive ends, they could still use a playmaking pass rusher. Both Ossai and Sample have only been rotational pieces for Hendrickson and Hubbard.

Available players include:

• Von Miller
• Matthew Judon
• Za’Darius Smith
• Charles Omenhu
• Azeez Ojulari

Unfortunately, the team hasn’t been connected to too many names, but there has been a fan favorite with many people pleading for Ojulari, the youngest and potentially cheapest one available.

The Bengals front office has taken a lot of heat this offseason…and the last three decades with the lack of movement, whether in free agency signings, contract extensions, or whiffs in the draft, but they made major progress last night, retaining not one, but two of their starts, with a potential third in the mix. The front office showed they were finally willing to spend some money and try to make it the distance.

For them to successfully complete a massive offseason, though, fans are still looking for a Hendrickson deal, a couple more free agent signings, and a successful draft. For now, let’s celebrate a win while we can.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...als-free-agents-2025-jamarr-chase-tee-higgins

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

NFL insider shares encouraging update on Trey Hendrickson

Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images

With the Bengals having allowed Hendrickson to seek a trade, this development is critical.

The Cincinnati Bengals locked up both Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase yesterday, and they have one more domino to fall. His name is Trey Hendrickson, and it seems like there has started to be some traction there.

With Joe Burrow taken care of as well, the Bengals must turn their attention to improving the Al Golden-led defense. Hendrickson, who has tallied 35 sacks in the last two seasons combined, wants a long-term deal, and the Bengals clearly get on the same page with either his per-year worth or the length of contract he’s seeking.

Both could be hurdles, but the best news is that the sides are pushing for an extension.

Now, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports the two sides are engaged on a new deal, which could happen soon.

“The Bengals have done a lot right over the course of the last several days and weeks...(they) may be on the verge of doing it again,” Rapoport said of Hendrickson.

The Bengals desperately need Hendrickson, who was really the only production on their defensive edge last season. He has had 13.5 or more sacks in four of his last five seasons, so the 30-year-old defensive end has had an incredibly productive career so far. With a few years left at that level, it will be interesting to see how long the Bengals tie him up for if a deal can be hammered out.

It seems the Cincinnati asking price, since Hendrickson still has a year left on his contract, is steep, so a trade may not be likely, especially if the Bengals would prefer to have another Super Bowl run left in this fully-stacked roster.

Nonetheless, let’s hope for the best and that a long-term deal can be reached before April’s NFL Draft kicks off.

From The Insiders on @NFLNetwork: The #Bengals locked up their star WRs, as Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins get paid. They now turnn their attention to trying to keep Trey Hendrickson. pic.twitter.com/jV2EXAW5U2

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 17, 2025​

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...i-bengals-trey-hendrickson-update-nfl-insider

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Zac Taylor says Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase “exceeded expectations” and next step “is a championship”

Sam Greene-USA TODAY Sports

The head coach knew the Bengals were headed for something special as soon as they drafted the two receivers.

The Cincinnati Bengals’ front office has sent shockwaves around the NFL by signing both Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins to massive contracts.

And, without a doubt, their head coach is pleased.

Zac Taylor said he “couldn’t be prouder” and called the duo two of the best receivers in Bengals history.

“Since the moment we drafted them, we knew we were built for something special,” Taylor said. “They’ve met our expectations every step of the way and exceeded them.”

The head coach added that, “The next step for us is a championship.”

If Higgins, Chase, and Burrow stay healthy, we’ve seen that that is enough to power a top offense in the NFL, even when the interior of the offensive line is in shambles.

However, last year the team struggled mightily on the defensive side.

The hope is that Al Golden will be able to further develop young players like Myles Murphy, Kris Jenkins, and Jordan Battle. Plus, it is likely the team will go defense heavy in the upcoming Draft.

If the defense can be even average, Taylor is absolutely right in being optimistic about his team’s championship aspirations.

To re-live some of the best moments from the trio of Burrow-Chase-Higgins, watch the video below.

Cincy Jungle comes loaded with the best Cincinnati Bengals links, news, and analysis. Find us on Twitter and Facebook. And check out the #1 Bengals Podcast on YouTube, iTunes, Spotify, or on the Bleav channel.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...-expectations-and-next-step-is-a-championship

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals meeting with Nick Emmanwori ahead of the draft

Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images

Is this a BPA pick?

Ahead of the NFL Draft, we will start to see reports of the players the Cincinnati Bengals will meet with ahead of their 17th overall selection in April. With heavy investments on the offensive side of the ball, look for them to take a look at a lot of defensive players.

One defensive back they will reportedly meet with is University of South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori.

South Carolina S Nick Emmanwori is reportedly set to meet with the Bengals.

This is the type of pick you make in a BPA scenario.

He’ll have a mid-Round 1 grade for us and the Derwin James comp is legitimate.

They need to sign a guard and pass rusher to make it a possibility. https://t.co/Z2IDAI5sMS

— Gridiron Grading (@GridironGrading) March 18, 2025​

Adding a player who draws comparisons to Derwin James to the Bengals defense is certainly an exciting thought. Since the departure of Jessie Bates III after the 2022 season, the Bengals have struggled to replace the dynamic playmaking Bates brought.

As the tweet mentions, the Bengals may only draft Emmanwori if they have signed what they believe are clear upgrades to the pass rush and offensive guard positions, but using one of their pre-draft visits for him shows there is legitimate interest.

Al Golden will likely get several rookies to work with this season, and a safety in the first round certainly appears to be a possibility.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...-bengals-draft-visits-south-carolina-football

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals Introduce star WRs and New Contracts; What’s Next? — OBI

Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

John Sheeran and Anthony talk about the new mega-extensions to Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, while also exploring what may be next up for the team.

The Cincinnati Bengals have entered unprecedented waters with the historic contracts given to both Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. The work done by all parties ensures the core of the offense—Joe Burrow, Chase and Higgins—will remain intact for close to the rest of this decade.

John Sheeran and Anthony Cosenza break down the official deals on Wednesday evening, talking about what finally got the ink to paper and what this means going forward. The duo also looks ahead at what is next on the docket for the Bengals, as some other roster questions loom.

Join us for the live show at 6:30 p.m. ET, or else catch the episode on your favorite program afterward.

This episode is brought you in part by FOCO, the “Fans Only Company. One of their upcoming releases is a very special one, not only because of the players featured, but in the fact that it is a limited release of only 75 in production. Check out the Ja’Marr Chase/Carl Pickens Rookie of the Year bobblehead for pre-release purchase here.

Check out our podcasts here on CJ, the Bleav in Cincy podcast feed, Spotify, Amazon, our YouTube channel, and as always, on iTunes!

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...uce-star-wrs-and-new-contracts-whats-next-obi

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Can you guess this Bengals wide receiver in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Bengals player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Bengals fans! We’re back for another day of the Cincy Jungle in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

If you can’t see the embedded game and you’re using Apple News, click this link.

Previous games​

Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Tuesday, March 18, 2025
Monday, March 17, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Cincy Jungle in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Bengals player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Who Dey!

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/20/24390076/sb-nation-bengals-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Teven Jenkins to Browns

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Jenkins is finally off the board.

When NFL free agency first began, the Cincinnati Bengals reportedly had interest in offensive guard Teven Jenkins to bolster their offensive line.

However, Jenkins is going to another AFC North team.

According to Jordan Schultz, Jenkins is signing with the Cleveland Browns.

Jenkins has played four seasons in the NFL, all with the Chicago Bears. The Bears drafted him in the second round (39th overall) in the 2021 NFL Draft.

In four seasons with the Bears, Jenkins played in 45 games and started 38 of them. He was originally drafted as a tackle out of Oklahoma State, and the Bears moved him to right guard prior to the 2022 Season.

Jenkins moved to left guard prior to the 2023 season, playing 26 games and starting 25 over the last two seasons.

The former First-Team All-Big 12 selection, Jenkins earned a 75.4 overall PFF grade in 2024. Breaking it down, Jenkins graded out at 75.8 in pass blocking and 74.3 in run blocking.

In 738 snaps in 2024, Jenkins allowed four sacks and committed four penalties.

Jenkins was a prospect to watch going into the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, where the Bengals ultimately selected Jackson Carman from the Clemson Tigers. Carman is now no longer with the Bengals.

Alas, the Bengals’ search for guards continues.

Sources: Former #Bears G Teven Jenkins is signing with the #Browns.

The former second-round pick started 38 games over four seasons in Chicago. pic.twitter.com/5zShDHShci

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 20, 2025​

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...eveland-browns-free-agents-cincinnati-bengals

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Can you guess this Bengals wide receiver in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Bengals player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Bengals fans! We’re back for another day of the Cincy Jungle in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

If you can’t see the embedded game and you’re using Apple News, click this link.

Previous games​

Thursday, March 20, 2025
Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Cincy Jungle in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Bengals player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Who Dey!

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/21/24390812/sb-nation-bengals-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals free agency tracker: Rumors, news, reported signings, and more updates

Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Check in on all the movement and rumored movement.

NFL free agency is here for the Cincinnati Bengals, who will look to bolster a roster that came just one game short of making the NFL Playoffs last season.

This is where we will keep track of all the news surrounding the Bengals and their movement during this time. We will keep track of rumors and official signings here as they become relevant.

Current Bengals Cap space, per Over the Cap: $29.4 million

Last updated: March 21st at 7 pm ET

---

Bengals Free agent signings or re-signings​

• The Bengals signed Lucas Patrick to a one-year deal.
• The Bengals signed Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins to contract extensions.
• The Bengals officially signed Oren Burks.
• The Bengals officially signed TJ Slaton and Samaje Perine while re-signing BJ Hill and Cam Sample.
• The Bengals re-signed March Wilson to a one-year contract
• The Bengals signed free agent running back Samaje Perine to a two-year contract
• The Bengals signed free agent linebacker Oren Burks to a one-year contract
• The Bengals signed free agent defensive tackle TJ Slaton to a two-year deal
• The Bengals re-signed tight end Mike Gesicki to a three-year contract
• The Bengals re-signed offensive lineman Cody Ford to a two-year contract
• The Bengals re-signed tight end Tanner Hudson to a one-year contract
• The Bengals re-signed punter Ryan Rehkow to a two-year contract
• The Bengals re-signed long snapper Cal Adomitis to a one-year contract
• The Bengals re-signed offensive guard Jaxson Kirkland to a one-year contract
• The Bengals re-signed tight end Cam Grandy to a one-year contract
• The Bengals franchise tagged wide receiver Tee Higgins
• The Bengals re-signed defensive tackle BJ Hill to a three-year contract

---

Bengals Free Agent Rumors​

• The Bengals are hosting Saints OL Lucas Patrick for a visit.
• Teven Jenkins signed with the Browns after reported interest from Bengals.
• The Bengals don’t have interest in Mekhi Becton.
• The Bengals are showing interest in Chicago Bears guard Teven Jenkins.
• The Bengals had interest in Azeez Ojulari before re-signing Joseph Ossai.
• A positive update on Tee Higgins.

---

Former Bengals headed elsewhere​

• Jay Tufele signed with the New York Jets.
• Khalil Herbert signed with the Indianapolis Colts.
• Defensive end Sam Hubbard retired.
• Offensive guard Alex Cappa signed with Las Vegas Raiders on a two-year contract
• Defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins signed a one-year contract with the Houston Texans
• Akeem Davis-Gaither signed a two-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals

---

All current Bengals hitting NFL free agency​

• Joe Bachie, linebacker
• Vonn Bell, safety
• Trent Brown, offensive tackle
• Chris Evans, running back
• Mike Hilton, cornerback
• D’Ante Smith, offensive tackle
• Trayveon Williams, running back
• Cade York, kicker (exclusive rights free agents)

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...ncy-tracker-rumors-news-signings-updates-cuts

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Can you guess this Bengals lineman in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Bengals player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Bengals fans! We’re back for another day of the Cincy Jungle in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

If you can’t see the embedded game and you’re using Apple News, click this link.

Previous games​

Friday, March 21, 2025
Thursday, March 20, 2025
Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Cincy Jungle in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Bengals player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Who Dey!

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/22/24391522/sb-nation-bengals-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Lucas Patrick discusses the plan for him with the Cincinnati Bengals

Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images

Will Patrick be a starter?

The Cincinnati Bengals inked Lucas Patrick, a 31-year-old guard, to a $2.1 million deal Friday afternoon, helping aid their offensive line depth after losing Alex Cappa.

The Bengals released Cappa, who was the team’s starting right guard last season. Cappa had a very disappointing 2024 campaign for the Bengals and was ready for a chance of scenery.

They’ll likely look to the draft to replace some of that production for the long-term future as well, but Patrick could be more of an immediate answer should the Bengals need him, especially as Cincinnati should focus on its defense in the first few days of the 2025 NFL Draft.

The good news is, based on the relatively small deal and Patrick’s comments, it sounds like a starting spot is not being handed to him like some feared.

“Come in and compete. See how things shake out. I know there’s still a draft, and they’re probably filling out some more spots. But I’m just fired up to be a Bengal and work with the staff and the players who are here. There are some pretty elite players who will be exciting to be teammates with from what I’ve seen from a far,” Patrick said via Bengals.com’s Geoff Hobson.

Patrick spent last season with the New Orleans Saints, starting 10 games. He’s been a consistent starter for the last five seasons, having originally commenced his career with the Green Bay Packers.

There’s going to be a spot for Patrick to both help along the line, having started as a center and guard during his career, so if nothing else, he gives Cincinnati depth at three different spots along the offensive line.

With the tackle positions shored up, having a versatile player like Patrick should only aid the protection of Joe Burrow.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/22/24391758/lucas-patrick-plan-cincinnati-bengals-offensive-line

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Can you guess this Bengals punter in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Bengals player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Bengals fans! We’re back for another day of the Cincy Jungle in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

If you can’t see the embedded game and you’re using Apple News, click this link.

Previous games​

Saturday, March 22, 2025
Friday, March 21, 2025
Thursday, March 20, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Cincy Jungle in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Bengals player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Who Dey!

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/23/24392109/sb-nation-bengals-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

The Bengals are copying the blueprint of a past Super Bowl champion (and it’s not the Eagles)

Photo by Harry How/Getty Images

The Bengals are paying to keep their offense together, emulating a previous Super Bowl winner with an elite quarterback getting his first Super Bowl win.

The Cincinnati Bengals have gotten a lot of flack for paying Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins so much money while the defense is getting little attention.

However, there have been some teams in the past that have paid top-of-the-line deals to quarterback and their top two wide receivers. An example many people bring up is the recent Super Bowl champs in the Philadelphia Eagles with Jalen Hurts, AJ Brown, and Devonta Smith.

However, in the latest episode of the Move the Sticks podcast, it was pointed out that the Bengals’ current strategy mirrored that of the 2006 Indianapolis Colts, who would go on to win a Super Bowl that year.

While the percentages were lower for the Colts in a very different NFL landscape, the concept was very similar. The Colts had an opportunity to keep superstar quarterback Peyton Manning happy by keeping his two favorite weapons, Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne (you could even argue that Mike Gesicki is the Bengals’ version of Dallas Clark at tight end).

The 2006 Super Bowl that the Colts would go on to win was Manning’s first, with 2006 being his ninth season in the league. The Bengals have to hope that it doesn’t take until Burrow’s ninth season for him to get his Super Bowl.

The Colts also had two pass rushers locked up in Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney. The Bengals are working on locking up Trey Hendrickson to continue being their version of Freeney, but they must find another player to get after the quarterback and be their Mathis in this year’s NFL Draft.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...ampion-colts-eagles-joe-burrow-peyton-manning

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals News (3/24): Praise for Bengals re-signing wide receivers

Photo by Harry How/Getty Images

The Bengals finally get some positive recognition for their move.

New Guard Lucas Patrick’s Experienced Versatility Drawn To Bengals’ Firepower: ‘This Is An Exciting Offense To Join’
“Come in and compete,” Patrick said of his role. “See how things shake out. I know there’s still a draft and they’re probably filling out some more spots. But I’m just fired up to be a Bengal and work with the staff and the players who are here. There are some pretty elite players who will be exciting to be teammates with from what I’ve seen from a far.”

After Chase, Higgins extensions, Bengals keep playing dangerous game
This trend started long before the Chase and Higgins contracts. They paid up to bring B.J. Hill, Joseph Ossai, Cody Ford and Mike Gesicki back. Small additions like running back Samaje Perine, guard Lucas Patrick and linebacker Oren Burks didn’t swing the needle much.

TJ Houshmandzadeh blasts Bengals critics for Chase, Higgins extensions
“You know what irritates me is you get people that do what I’m doing talk about this,” Houshmandzadeh said. “‘Oh, they’re spending their money in the wrong place.’ Who else are they gonna pay? Who else has earned it? Like, they gotta pay somebody. These two on this team have earned it and they deserve it. Who else are they gonna pay? You gonna go sign a free agent? And so, like, had they let both or one of them go, there would’ve been a complaint. You sign both of them: You’ve got people that want to complain. ‘You’ve got to build your team from the inside out.’ That is very true. But these dudes have earned it. When you draft a quarterback No. 1 and you give him $55 million a year, you’ve to give him some receivers that can get it done, make plays, 50-50 balls. You have to give him that.”

The Athletic Slots Mike Brown, Bengals Among Middle of The NFL’s Hungriest Owners For Super Bowl win
“Yes, they made hefty investments in wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins,” Jones wrote. ”But those moves felt more like notoriously frugal owner Mike Brown caving to the demands of franchise quarterback Joe Burrow. Cincinnati thus far has neglected to truly upgrade the defense, which is a must if the Bengals are serious about trying to overtake Kansas City, Buffalo, and Baltimore in the AFC.”

Asante Samuel Jr. predicted to land with AFC contender that desperately needs CB help
While this change could certainly help Cincinnati in 2025, they should also be looking to add pieces to the defense, specifically in the secondary. With veteran cornerback Mike Hilton, who spent the last four years with the Bengals, still unsigned, that need is even more pressing.

Watch: NFL Legend Rob Gronkowski Reveals Trey Hendrickson Sent Him Bengals Jersey
“I faced him a couple of times. Strong guy, built strong. Can’t really move him, you know, high motor, hard worker,” Gronkowski said on the show. ”He was cool enough, he wanted the jersey swap with me so he actually sent me one of his Cincinnati Bengals jerseys. Check it out, man. It’s one of the coolest jerseys I actually ever put my hands on. I’m telling you the material feels good. It looks good.”

Bengals praised for avoiding costly blunder with key star
“The Bengals finished last season ranked 25th in both yards and points allowed. As they try to rebound from a down 2024 campaign, the last thing they need to do is jettison their best player on defense.”

Bengals Star Ja’Marr Chase Has Awesome Exchange With Titans Coach Brian Callahan
“I’m proud of you, man. You’re playing your ass off,” Callahan said. “I hope you f****** win every damn award there is.”

Cincinnati Bengals NFL Draft Trends
The Bengals have several holes that they could look to fill in the first round. Realistically they need two guards, a defensive tackle, edge rusher, linebacker, potentially another cornerback and a safety. Now that gives them a lot of players to look at and a lot of different scenarios to go, but what does the past data say they are likely to do? Let’s take a look position by position starting with guard.

Ten best moves of the 2025 NFL offseason so far: Bears, Bengals, Rams among teams trending up
Cincinnati Bengals extend Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Give credit to the Bengals. They’ve been saying for months that they want to keep their star wide receivers together, and that’s exactly what they did. You can debate the logic in paying big money to a couple wideouts — Chase received a four-year deal worth $161 million while Higgins agreed to a four-year, $115 million package — but this is the best way for this team to remain relevant when it comes to championship contention.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/24/24392803/bengals-news-wide-receivers-jamarr-chase-tee-higgins

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals attend Marshall Pro Day, likely for first-round prospect

Photo by Lee Coleman/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

One prospect has been linked to the Bengals.

As Pro Days continue ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, we will get reports of which campuses the Cincinnati Bengals have representation at.

After meeting with prospects at the scouting combine last month, Pro Day visits could tip us off a bit to what prospects the Bengals are seriously interested in.

The latest report has the Bengals attending Marshall’s Pro Day, presumably to get a better look at defensive end prospect Mike Green, who the team met with at the NFL Combine.

Bengals reportedly at Marshall's Pro Day today.

I think Mike Green would be a great pick at #17 assuming an all-clear on the reported off field matters. https://t.co/WMDBq14PZy

— Andre Perrotta (@andreperrotta13) March 24, 2025​

Green has been projected to the Bengals in several mock drafts, and with the uncertainty surrounding Trey Hendrickson, they could very well be in the market for a pass rusher with the 17th overall pick. But even

As Perrotta’s tweet notes, Green does have some potential off-the-field issues. There have been reports of Green’s name mentioned in two separate sexual assault allegations, both of which he has denied.

While the Bengals are likely evaluating Green as a football player, they will certainly do their homework surrounding the off-the-field allegations ahead of next month’s draft. Culture has been a huge part of Zac Taylor’s tenure in Cincinnati, so they will likely be extremely thorough as they evaluate Green’s potential fit in Cincinnati.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...bengals-marshall-pro-day-first-round-prospect

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Raiders tabbed a logical trade suitor for Germaine Pratt

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

Could the Bengals still deal Germaine Pratt?

One storyline that has taken a back burner this offseason is linebacker Germaine Pratt requesting a trade from the Cincinnati Bengals.

In an offseason where Trey Hendrickson also requested a trade and the team had contract negotiations with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, it is a bit understandable.

Moe Moton of Sportnaut.com recently included Pratt among a list of players that would make sense for the Las Vegas Raiders to acquire:

"Pratt has been a reliable and productive linebacker for six seasons. He has significantly improved in pass coverage, allowing a passer rating of 88.1 or lower over the previous three years. The seventh-year veteran hasn’t allowed more than two touchdowns in coverage within a season. Pratt’s skill set would complement Elandon Roberts’ run-stopping ability."

We haven't heard much about what the Bengals plan to do with Pratt and his request. He is in the final year of his contract, and they seemingly have a replacement with Oren Burks, so dealing him could make sense.

It is also likely Cincinnati calls Pratt's bluff and doesn't trade him. He has been fairly reliable in the running and passing game. You wouldn't call him spectacular in either area last season, but he was far from the only problem.

Pratt will always be remembered as Johnny on the spot for some crucial plays in Bengals history. His interception against the Raiders in the 2021 Wild Card round ended the Bengals drought for playoff wins going back nearly 30 years. That's a play that won't be forgotten anytime soon.

Bet the Raiders wish they had Pratt that night.

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...rade-suitor-germaine-pratt-cincinnati-bengals

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Will Mike Hilton return to the Bengals for the 2025 season?

Dec 22, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Mike Hilton (21) runs onto the field before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Hilton has been a mainstay in the Bengals secondary the last four seasons.

Signing Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins to contract extensions is great, and, in my opinion, it makes the offseason a success based on that alone.

However, I’m not naive to think there isn’t more work for the Cincinnati Bengals to do to improve the roster going into 2025. There definitely are more ways for the Bengals to make this offseason even more of a success.

One of those moves could be re-signing Mike Hilton. It could be that simple.

The perception has been that Hilton will likely not be on the Bengals in 2025, but there’s a world that exists where the Bengals could bring him back in free agency.

ESPN’s Matt Bowen currently has Hilton as the No. 5 free agent still available.

Bowen writes on Hilton: “A slot corner who plays with a sense of urgency, Hilton had 12 tackles for loss and eight pressures last season. He has a natural feel for playing in space as a coverage defender with the aggressive mentality to tackle and blitz on the edges. In eight seasons, Hilton has 13 interceptions, 11.5 sacks, and 34 pass breakups.”

Stats aside, Hilton has emerged as a locker-room leader in his four seasons with the Bengals. Bringing him back could be crucial in the development of the young players in the Bengals secondary like DJ Turner, Jordan Battle, D.J. Ivey and Dax Hill.

Regardless of if Hilton’s play fell off last year, veteran leadership is difficult to replace. Losing Jessie Bates III and Chidobe Awuzie in the last two offseasons was crucial in that aspect.

Veteran leadership can help defenses, in this case, transition in getting younger. It’s not just about letting older players go and moving on to younger players. Keeping older players is a good thing for veteran leadership. That could be why the Bengals bring back Hilton if they do. It would be a smart move, but will it ultimately happen?

Sound off in the poll below and in the comments!

Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/...engals-2025-nfl-season-cincinnati-free-agents