Bengals Sign Two-Time Super Bowl Champion Mike Pennel to Practice Squad

The Cincinnati Bengals are actively strengthening their roster ahead of the 2025 NFL season, focusing on both offense and defense to support quarterback Joe Burrow. The team signed veteran defensive tackle Mike Pennel, a two-time Super Bowl champion, to their practice squad with plans to elevate him to the active roster, adding much-needed depth to their defensive line. Alongside this, the Bengals have brought in tight end Noah Fant and guard Dalton Risner to boost their offensive options. Despite these moves, safety remains a weak spot for Cincinnati, and there is speculation about signing veteran safety Justin Simmons to add experience to the secondary. Former NFL player Chris Long has criticized the Bengals for potentially wasting Joe Burrow’s prime years, drawing parallels to the New Orleans Saints' handling of Drew Brees, emphasizing the urgency for Cincinnati to make the playoffs and contend for a Super Bowl. Burrow, regarded as one of the best quarterbacks when healthy and coming from a strong football lineage, faces mounting pressure to lead the Bengals to postseason success.