Bengals Finalize 53-Man Roster Ahead Anticipated Depth Moves

The Cincinnati Bengals faced roster challenges entering the 2025 NFL season, particularly in managing depth at defensive tackle and safety positions. They unsuccessfully attempted to claim defensive tackle Jordan Jefferson off waivers, which would have crowded an already full defensive line, indicating that subsequent moves—such as signing offensive lineman Dalton Risner—will likely involve waiving or moving rookie defensive tackles Howard Cross III or Eric Gregory to the practice squad. The Bengals retained two undrafted free agent defensive tackles, a surprise given the competition, but the offensive line remains a concern with only eight players kept, and instability at guard positions. Safety depth is also an issue, as Daijahn Anthony begins the season on injured reserve following a hamstring injury, prompting the Bengals to seek additional experienced or high-upside safeties from the waiver wire, including veterans like Jalen Mills and younger players such as Lewis Cine and Jerrick Reed II. The team’s top safeties remain Geno Stone, Jordan Battle, and Tycen Anderson, but with Anthony sidelined, adding a fourth active safety is critical for both defensive rotation and special teams roles. Overall, the Bengals' roster moves reflect a balancing act between maintaining depth and managing injuries, with further transactions expected to address these vulnerabilities before the season commences.