Bengals Sign Back-to-Back Free Agents to Strengthen Defense The Cincinnati Bengals made two significant free-agent additions on Thursday, bolstering their defensive roster as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season. Following the signing of Ja’Sir Taylor, the team secured former Pittsburgh Steelers safety Kyle Dugger in a one-year deal, marking a strategic effort to address depth and leadership on the defensive side of the ball. These moves come as the Bengals continue to refine their defensive strategy, aiming to solidify a unit that has been a focal point of their recent success. Taylor, a versatile defensive back with experience in both the secondary and special teams, was the Bengals’ first free-agent acquisition of the offseason. His signing was seen as a step toward enhancing the team’s secondary, which has been a key area of focus for head coach Zac Taylor. The Bengals have emphasized the need for players who can contribute immediately, and Taylor’s track record of reliability and adaptability aligns with that goal. His addition complements the existing talent in the secondary, including standout cornerbacks like Sam Hubbard and Tre Flowers, while also providing flexibility in the nickel back role. Dugger’s signing follows Taylor’s, further underscoring the Bengals’ commitment to strengthening their defensive depth. The 30-year-old safety, a former second-round pick in 2018, brings a wealth of experience to the roster. While his primary role is expected to be as a situational safety behind starters Jordan Battle and Bryan Cook, Dugger’s ability to contribute on special teams adds value to a unit that has historically excelled in that area. His arrival also addresses the loss of Tycen Anderson, a key special teams contributor who left for the New England Patriots in free agency.#pittsburgh_steelers #cincinnati_bengals #zac_taylor #kyle_dugger #jasir_taylor
Bengals Sign Safety Kyle Dugger to One-Year Contract The Cincinnati Bengals have finalized a one-year agreement with safety Kyle Dugger, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move marks the team’s effort to bolster its secondary ahead of the 2025 season. Dugger, 30, will join the Bengals after spending the second half of the 2024 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. During his time with Pittsburgh, he started nine games and contributed significantly to the defense, recording 42 total tackles, five passes defensed, and two interceptions. Dugger’s journey to the Bengals began with his tenure in New England. A second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, he spent his first five-plus seasons with the New England Patriots, where he became a key rotational player. Over his career, Dugger has appeared in 90 games, with 78 starts, and has accumulated 11 interceptions and 29 passes defensed. His ability to read the game and make plays in critical moments has made him a reliable option for teams seeking defensive depth. The Bengals’ decision to sign Dugger reflects their strategy to address weaknesses in their secondary. While the team has a strong foundation with players like Jessie Bates III and Tre Flowers, adding Dugger provides flexibility and competition. His experience in both the Patriots’ and Steelers’ systems could help him adapt quickly to Cincinnati’s defensive schemes. Dugger’s trade to the Steelers in the offseason was a notable move, as he had been with the Patriots for nearly six years. The trade allowed him to gain more playing time and showcase his skills in a different system. His performance with Pittsburgh, particularly his ability to step into a starting role, has positioned him as a valuable free agent for teams looking to strengthen their defense.#new_england_patriots #adam_schefter #pittsburgh_steers #cincinnati_bengals #kyle_dugger
Ex-Steelers Safety Kyle Dugger Signs With Bengals, Agent Confirms Safety Kyle Dugger has agreed to a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, according to his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, who shared the news with ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday. The move places Dugger in the AFC North for the 2026 season, marking his return to the league after a brief stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Bengals, seeking depth at the safety position following the departure of Geno Stone to the Buffalo Bills, are expected to benefit from Dugger’s experience and versatility. Dugger’s journey to the Bengals began with a trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers, who acquired him from the New England Patriots during the 2025 trade deadline. The Steelers gave up a 2026 sixth-round draft pick to secure Dugger, along with a 2026 seventh-round pick, in exchange for the former second-rounder. The trade was driven by the Steelers’ need for defensive stability, as starting strong safety DeShon Elliott was placed on season-ending injured reserve. Dugger’s arrival provided immediate impact, as he played nearly 100% of the defensive snaps in his debut game with the Steelers, helping the team defeat the Indianapolis Colts. Dugger’s performance continued to impress throughout the 2025 season. In his third start, he recorded a pick-six, showcasing his ability to make game-changing plays. However, his workload was adjusted in the final weeks of the regular season. During the Week 17 matchup against the Cleveland Browns, Dugger played approximately half of the defensive snaps, splitting time with veteran Chuck Clark. This adjustment allowed the Steelers to manage their depth while preparing for the playoffs. Despite the reduced snaps in the final games, Dugger’s contributions were significant.#new_england_patriots #pittsburgh_steelers #drew_rosenhaus #cincinnati_bengals #kyle_dugger
Buffalo Bills Bring Back Safety Damar Hamlin The Buffalo Bills have signed safety Damar Hamlin to a one-year contract, a move that has drawn mixed reactions from fans. While some may view the decision skeptically, Hamlin has consistently contributed to the team since being drafted in 2021 from Pittsburgh. His experience as a starting safety adds depth to the roster, particularly with C.J. Gardner-Johnson expected to serve as the primary safety alongside Cole Bishop. Hamlin’s role as a special teamer is also significant, despite a notable error during a postseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs a few years ago. The deal is not a major blockbuster in free agency, as the Bills are currently focused on filling roster spots ahead of the draft. However, Hamlin’s off-field impact remains substantial. He is a key figure in the Buffalo community through his Chasing M’s Foundation, which aims to improve health equity and save lives through education, access, and advocacy. His efforts with the American Heart Association have also gained attention, especially following his cardiac arrest during a Monday Night Football game against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bills’ safety depth chart includes Cole Bishop as the starting safety, with C.J. Gardner-Johnson likely to be the second starter. Hamlin would join the roster as a backup, alongside players like Geno Stone, Jordan Hancock, and Wande Owens. Sam Franklin is listed as a safety but is primarily expected to contribute on special teams. This signing underscores the team’s strategy to balance immediate needs with long-term planning, while also leveraging Hamlin’s community influence.#buffalo_bills #american_heart_association #cincinnati_bengals #damar_hamlin #chasing_m_s_foundation
Buffalo Bills Re-Sign Damar Hamlin for 2026 Season The Buffalo Bills have re-signed safety Damar Hamlin to a one-year contract for the 2026 NFL season. The 28-year-old player, who became the only NFL team Hamlin has ever known, returns after his 2025 campaign was cut short due to a pectoral injury. Hamlin, who previously endured a life-threatening cardiac arrest during a game in January 2023, made a full recovery and played in five games the following season, earning second-place honors in Comeback Player of the Year voting. Hamlin’s 2025 season was limited to five games after sustaining a pectoral injury during practice, which required surgery and ended his season early. His resilience was tested in January 2023 when he suffered a cardiac incident during a “Monday Night Football” matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. Diagnosed as commotio cordis—a rare condition caused by blunt force trauma that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest—Hamlin was resuscitated on the field and has since fully recovered. His return to play in 2024, including a standout performance in the AFC divisional round, marked a significant milestone in his career. During the 2024 season, Hamlin recorded eight tackles and forced a strip-sack on Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in a Bills victory. His efforts on the field were complemented by his off-field advocacy, as he has collaborated with the American Heart Association and lawmakers to promote CPR and AED training in schools, youth organizations, and communities. Hamlin has also worked to secure AEDs for educational institutions and help implement emergency action plans to address cardiac emergencies. Hamlin’s journey from a near-fatal incident to becoming a key player for the Bills underscores his determination.#buffalo_bills #american_heart_association #cincinnati_bengals #damar_hamlin #lamar_jackson
Joe Flacco Re-Signs with Bengals for One-Year Deal Cincinnati has finalized a one-year contract with veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, securing his return for his 19th NFL season in 2026. The deal, worth up to $9 million, was first reported by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Flacco, 41, will join the Bengals after spending the 2025 season with the team, where he appeared in 13 games, starting 10 and posting a 2-8 record. His re-signing adds depth to a quarterback room already featuring Joe Burrow and Josh Johnson. Flacco’s contract includes a base value of $6 million with potential incentives to reach the $9 million cap. Over his career, he has accumulated 209 games (201 starts), completing 4,417 of 7,167 passes (61.6% completion rate) for 48,176 yards, 272 touchdowns, and 172 interceptions. His passer rating of 84.1 ranks among the league’s top performers. Flacco was selected to his first Pro Bowl in 2025, following a standout five-game stint with the Browns that helped them reach the playoffs. In Cincinnati, Flacco will serve as the backup quarterback, stepping in as QB2 behind Burrow. The Bengals recently added Johnson to their roster, but Flacco’s return provides additional depth amid recent injuries to the quarterback position. His experience as a starter over the past two seasons, despite a 4-12 record, makes him a reliable option for spot starts. While his results as a starter have not always translated to wins, his familiarity with Zac Taylor’s system and proven durability make him a valuable asset. Flacco’s role as a backup ensures he remains a trusted option for the Bengals, offering stability in case of injury or underperformance by Burrow. His re-signing underscores the team’s commitment to maintaining a competitive quarterback room, even as they navigate the challenges of sustaining long-term success.#cincinnati_bengals #joe_flacco #joe_burrow #josh_johnson #zac_taylor
Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco is on the verge of staying in Cincinnati. On Tuesday, sources told WLWT that final details of the contract are being negotiated to bring back Flacco, 41, as Joe Burrow’s backup in Cincinnati. Flacco’s 2025 season was a tumultuous one, with the veteran starting the season as the Cleveland Browns’ starter before he was benched for rookie Dillon Gabriel and then traded to the Cincinnati Bengals weeks after Joe Burrow went down with an injury. Less than a week after Flacco was traded to the Bengals on Oct. 7, he took over starting duties from Jake Browning. Cincinnati went 1-5 in games started by Flacco, but few could blame the veteran signal caller for the team’s struggles. Flacco completed 61.7 percent of his passes, tossed 13 touchdowns, and had four interceptions. Including his four games with the Browns, Flacco finished the 2025 season with 15 passing touchdowns, 10 interceptions, and 2,479 passing yards. Flacco was named to the Pro Bowl roster as a replacement, joining wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins in Las Vegas. Earlier this year, Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher emphasized the organization’s desire to bring Flacco back into the fold.#cincinnati_bengals #joe_flacco #joe_burrow #dillon_gabriel #dan_pitcher
Bengals and 41-Year-Old QB Joe Flacco Ink One-Year Deal Joe Flacco, the 41-year-old quarterback, has agreed to a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, according to his agent, Joe Linta, as reported by ESPN. The deal is valued at $6 million but could reach up to $9 million with performance-based incentives. Flacco’s return marks his third stint with the Bengals, following previous stints with the Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, and Cleveland Browns. Flacco began the 2024 season as the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns but was benched after four games in favor of rookie Dillon Gabriel. Meanwhile, the Bengals faced a quarterback shortage after Joe Burrow suffered a turf toe injury and Jake Browning struggled in limited action. The Browns traded Flacco to Cincinnati in exchange for a 2026 fifth-round draft pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick. Browning, who signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers earlier this offseason, was released by the Bengals. Flacco made six starts for the Bengals in Burrow’s absence, contributing to the team’s efforts during the season. In nine appearances, he completed 61.7% of his passes for 1,664 yards, 13 touchdowns, and four interceptions. Despite playing with a sprained AC joint in his throwing shoulder, Flacco threw for a career-high 470 yards in a loss to the Chicago Bears. His performance earned him a spot in the 2024 Pro Bowl, marking his first appearance in the event after 18 seasons in the NFL. Flacco expressed a desire to compete for a starting role again in 2026, indicating his intent to remain a key player for the Bengals. A first-round pick by the Ravens in 2008, Flacco has accumulated 48,176 passing yards, 272 touchdowns, and 172 interceptions over his career.#baltimore_ravens #denver_broncos #cleveland_browns #cincinnati_bengals #joe_flacco
Denver Broncos Avoid Signing Safety for Now The Denver Broncos faced initial speculation about a potential free agency move involving safety Tycen Anderson, but the deal did not materialize as reported. Early Wednesday, local media outlets suggested the Broncos had secured a one-year contract with Anderson, a free agent from the Cincinnati Bengals. Yanni Tragellis of WKRC-TV in Cincinnati tweeted that Anderson confirmed to him he was signing with Denver, while James Rapien of BengalsTalk.com echoed the same information. However, the situation quickly shifted. Hours later, Parker Gabriel of the Denver Post reported that the Broncos had not reached an agreement with Anderson, citing a source who stated the deal was “nowhere close.” Rapien later revised his account, noting that Anderson had not yet signed with any team and remained an unsigned free agent. This contradiction highlights the volatility of early free agency reports, where preliminary statements often lack confirmation. The Broncos’ interest in Anderson appears to stem from his potential contributions to the team’s special teams unit and as depth at the safety position. While a one-year deal could provide flexibility, the lack of a finalized agreement suggests the team is still evaluating options. The situation underscores the challenges of navigating free agency, where rumors and unverified claims can create confusion. As the NFL free agency period progresses, teams often balance immediate needs with long-term strategy. For Denver, securing reliable players without overcommitting remains a priority. The outcome of Anderson’s situation will likely depend on further developments, though for now, the Broncos have not made a formal move.#denver_broncos #cincinnati_bengals #tycen_anderson #wkrc_tv #denver_post
Tycen Anderson's potential departure from the Cincinnati Bengals is no longer certain. Despite initial reports suggesting the veteran safety had agreed to a move with the Denver Broncos, Anderson has confirmed he remains a free agent and has not finalized a contract. This development leaves him available to sign with any team, including his former club. The situation has created uncertainty, as the Broncos had previously appeared to have secured Anderson's services. Multiple insiders within the Bengals organization had assumed the deal was finalized, but the possibility of a last-minute reversal has opened the door for renewed discussions. While the Broncos still seek to sign Anderson, the Bengals have shown interest in reuniting with the safety, particularly given his value as a special teams contributor. Anderson's role with the Bengals has primarily been on special teams, where he has excelled. He has played in every game over the past two seasons and has accumulated 46 career tackles. However, his opportunity to contribute on defense has been limited, as the team has already signed Bryan Cook to pair with Jordan Battle at safety. Without an injury, Anderson would not be expected to play defense in Cincinnati. Bengals special teams coordinator Darrin Simmons has publicly expressed his desire to re-sign Anderson, highlighting his importance to the team. "I'd love that," Simmons said at the NFL combine. "He's obviously a good player. I think that he's an important cog for us." The coordinator emphasized his trust in Anderson's abilities and his ongoing relationship with the safety. If Anderson ultimately leaves Cincinnati, the Bengals will likely rely on Daijahn Anthony and PJ Jules to step up on special teams.#denver_broncos #cincinnati_bengals #nfl_combine #tycen_anderson #darrin_simmons
Denver Broncos Sign Safety/Special Teams Star Tycen Anderson The Denver Broncos have signed safety and special teams standout Tycen Anderson, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The move, initially reported prematurely last night, has now been confirmed as the Broncos and Anderson have reached an agreement. Anderson, a former Cincinnati Bengals special teams ace, will bolster the Broncos’ depth at safety while enhancing their special teams unit. The Broncos lost safety P.J. Locke to the Dallas Cowboys in free agency, creating a need for additional depth in their safety room. Anderson, who was a key contributor for the Bengals on special teams, will compete with All-Pro special teamer Devon Key and JL Skinner for the third safety role on defense. His versatility and experience make him a valuable addition to the team’s secondary. Anderson, a fifth-round pick by the Bengals in the 2022 NFL Draft, quickly became a cornerstone of their special teams unit. Standing 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 203 pounds, he ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine. Over his four seasons with the Bengals, he appeared in 41 games, primarily on special teams, and recorded 42 tackles. His role as a special teams ace was critical to the Bengals’ success, and his ability to contribute on both sides of the ball made him a key asset. NFL.com’s draft analyst, Lance Zierlein, highlighted Anderson’s potential as a backup down safety. He noted Anderson’s determination as a run supporter and his ability to fit into a backup role with upside. At Toledo, Anderson was a three-year starter who played as a big nickel and box add-on. His size, length, and speed stood out on tape, and he demonstrated solid run-stopping ability near the line of scrimmage.#ian_rapoport #denver_broncos #cincinnati_bengals #tycen_anderson #devon_key
Akeem Davis-Gaither Signs with Colts in Free Agency Indianapolis has finalized a free-agent deal with veteran linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither, marking a significant addition to a defensive unit undergoing restructuring. The move comes as the Colts seek to bolster their linebacker corps, which has seen key departures in recent months. Davis-Gaither, who previously played under defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo during his time with the Cincinnati Bengals, brings both experience and a familiar connection to the Colts’ coaching staff. The 31-year-old linebacker spent five seasons with the Bengals, where he served as a rotational player under Anarumo. His tenure in Cincinnati coincided with Anarumo’s rise as a defensive coordinator, and the two maintained a working relationship even after Davis-Gaither moved to Arizona in 2024. Last season, Davis-Gaither started 13 games for the Arizona Cardinals, contributing 117 tackles while also facing challenges in coverage. His performance highlighted both his value as a run-stuffer and the areas where he needs improvement, particularly in pass defense. The Colts’ decision to sign Davis-Gaither appears to be part of a broader strategy to address depth and experience at linebacker. The team traded longtime middle linebacker Zaire Franklin to Green Bay earlier this offseason and did not re-sign veteran weak-side linebacker Germaine Pratt, leaving a gap in starting experience. With Davis-Gaither’s arrival, the Colts aim to solidify their linebacker room, though questions remain about how he will fit into their defensive scheme under Anarumo. Anarumo, who has been with the Colts since 2023, has emphasized the importance of versatility and adaptability in his defensive system.#indianapolis #akeem_davisgaither #colts #lou_anarumo #cincinnati_bengals
Top 2025 NFL Cornerbacks for Fantasy Football Lineups Identifying favorable and unfavorable cornerback matchups is a crucial aspect of building successful fantasy football lineups. Elite NFL cornerbacks can significantly impact the performance of opposing wide receivers, often by limiting passing opportunities or preventing key catches. This analysis highlights the top four perimeter cornerbacks for the 2025 NFL season, focusing on their statistical contributions and defensive impact. CB DJ Turner II, Cincinnati Bengals Turner emerged as a standout performer in his third season, establishing himself as the Bengals’ most reliable defensive player. At 25, he earned a 73.3 PFF defense grade and a 78.1 PFF coverage grade, making him the only Bengals defender with at least 500 defensive snaps to achieve a 69.0 PFF defense grade or higher. His ability to force incompletions at a league-best frequency while discouraging quarterbacks from targeting his coverage sets him apart. Despite frequently facing the opposition’s top wide receiver, Turner forced incompletions on 28.6% of third-down snaps, ranking ninth among 63 cornerbacks with at least 115 third-down coverage snaps. His combination of high catch rate prevention and disruptive coverage makes him a top-tier coverage defender. CB Devon Witherspoon, Seattle Seahawks Witherspoon delivered a career-high performance in 2025, earning a 90.1 PFF defense grade, 90.1 PFF run-defense grade, 92.9 PFF pass-rush grade, and an 83.6 PFF coverage grade. Transitioning from a slot-heavy role to a perimeter-focused position, he maintained elite metrics across all defensive facets. Among 71 cornerbacks with at least 600 defensive snaps, Witherspoon ranked first in two categories and third in run defense, while tying for second in coverage. His 7.#denver_broncos #seattle_seahawks #pittsburgh_steers #cincinnati_bengals #dj_turner_ii
