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
