The Cincinnati Bengals cut the 90-man roster down to 53 by Tuesday’s deadline and in the process, threw out a couple of surprises.
Here’s a quick rundown of some eyebrow-raising items from the list of cuts:
Youth Movement: The Bengals kept all 10 rookies from the draft class and two undrafted free agents. None are without merit, as even seventh-rounders like Matt Lee emerged as possible long-term contributors. Sixth-round tight end Tanner McLachlan even forced them to keep five at the position.
Hobbled DL: The Bengals only have four healthy edge rushers before any waiver wire claims or free agents. First-rounder product Myles Murphy got shifted to injured reserve, confirming he’ll miss at least a month. Rookie McKinnley Jackson on the interior is also trying to work his way back from an injury.
Kirkland Emerges: Jaxson Kirkland, undrafted a year ago, forced the likes of Jackson Carman off the roster. He’s one of nine linemen, which says much about what they see in him as a depth option.
Versatile Secondary: One glance-over of the secondary shows something really interesting — four of the five corners can play the slot. And a few of the corners — like Mike Hilton and Dax Hill — can play a safety role or have in the past.
Punter: The undrafted Ryan Rehkow runs the show, at least for now, with Brad Robbins shifted to injured reserve.
