The Cincinnati Bengals are preparing for the upcoming NFL preseason, with several players facing potential cuts due to competition for limited roster spots. As training camps begin, the team is evaluating its roster ahead of the regular season, focusing particularly on positions where depth and performance are critical. Among the players most vulnerable to being released are tight end Drew Sample, defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson, and offensive lineman Cody Ford. Drew Sample, a tight end signed to a $2.85 million contract, finds himself in a tough position within the Bengals' offense. The team currently has seven tight ends on its roster, with only one spot available on the 53-man roster beyond the locked-in Mike Gesicki. Sample, who recorded 40 receptions for 349 yards and a touchdown in 2020, has been relegated to a backup role since then. His high salary compared to other tight ends in the system raises concerns about his future with the team. Alongside Sample, other tight ends such as Tanner Hudson, Erick All Jr., Cam Grandy, Josh Kattus, and seventh-round rookie Jack Endries are vying for the final roster spot. Defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson, a second-year player selected in the third round, has struggled to meet expectations. Through two seasons, Jackson has tallied just 22 tackles, one sack, one forced fumble, and 2.5 run stuffs. This underwhelming performance has come amid a major overhaul of the Bengals' defensive line. The team acquired former first-round pick Jonathan Allen and traded for three-time Pro Bowler Dexter Lawrence, significantly strengthening the unit. With multiple established players already in place, Jackson’s lack of production puts him at risk of being cut before the preseason concludes. Other defensive linemen such as Howard Cross III, B.J. Hill, Jordan Jefferson, Kris Jenkins Jr., Landon Robinson, and T.J. Slaton Jr. provide depth, further reducing Jackson’s chances of securing a spot. Offensive lineman Cody Ford, earning $2.9 million, faces similar challenges. While Orlando Brown Jr. and Amarius Mims are expected to start at tackle, Ford’s high salary makes him a target for release. The Bengals have three rookie offensive linemen, Brian Parker II, Corey Robinson II, and Christian Jones, who could receive playing time, potentially making Ford expendable once the roster cutdown begins. Ford’s situation highlights the financial pressures faced by players competing for limited opportunities. The Bengals’ focus on building a competitive roster has led to difficult decisions, especially in positions where multiple players can perform adequately. These moves reflect broader trends in the NFL, where teams often prioritize younger talent and more affordable options over veteran players with higher salaries. The preseason will serve as a crucial period for these players to prove themselves, as they vie for the few remaining spots on the active roster. As the Bengals move forward, the outcomes for these players will depend heavily on their performances during training camp and early games. The team’s coaching staff and front office will evaluate how each contributes to the overall success of the squad. For players like Sample, Jackson, and Ford, the coming weeks will determine whether they remain part of the team heading into the regular season or face the possibility of being cut.
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