Cincinnati Bengals 2024 Preseason Opener: Roster Insights and Key Takeaways

The Cincinnati Bengals kicked off their 2024 preseason with a close game at home in Paycor Stadium, ultimately falling to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 17-14. The starters saw limited action, with Joe Burrow and the first-team offense making an immediate impact before taking a seat. Afterward, the backups took the field, showcasing players vying for spots on the final 53-man roster, which will be set by August 27. Here’s an in-depth look at the potential roster, combining observations from the preseason opener.

Quarterback (2)

• Joe Burrow
• Jake Browning

“Burrow’s position is set in concrete. He’s a made man, one of the few in the NFL.” Despite Jake Browning being outshined by third-string quarterback Logan Woodside, Browning remains the backup. His performance last season solidified his role, and the preseason won’t change that.

Half Back (4)

• Chase Brown
• Zack Moss
• Trayveon Williams
• Elijah Collins

“Brown, Moss, and Williams, I think, are locks.” Brown is poised for a breakout season, while Moss, brought in via free agency, and Williams, looking to increase his offensive contributions, seem secure. Collins showed potential, especially in pass blocking, making him a valuable asset. Chris Evans remains on the bubble, showing flashes but lacking consistency.

Wide Receiver (6)

• Ja’Marr Chase
• Tee Higgins
• Jermaine Burton
• Trenton Irwin
• Andrei Iosivas
• Charlie Jones

“This is pretty set unless Jones’ knee is an issue.” Chase and Higgins are the top targets, with Burton impressing in the preseason opener. Irwin and Iosivas caught passes, and Jones has had a solid camp. Unless injury strikes, this group is likely finalized.

Tight End (4)

• Mike Gesicki
• Drew Sample
• Erick All Jr.
• Tanner Hudson

“This is what happens when you build depth at a position in just a single offseason.” Gesicki, more of a slot receiver, Sample, more of an H-back, and the addition of Hudson and All have created a well-rounded group. It’s tough to cut anyone from this roster, even though Tanner McLachlan may have to find a spot on the practice squad.

Offensive Line (9)

• Orlando Brown Jr.
• Cordell Volson
• Ted Karras
• Alex Cappa
• Trent Brown
• Amarius Mims
• Cody Ford
• Matt Lee
• Eric Miller

“Jackson Carman was bad on Saturday night.” With Carman struggling, particularly with penalties, Eric Miller’s solid performance as a pass blocker could push him into a roster spot. The team may move on from Carman despite his versatility, opting for consistency over potential.

Defensive Line (10)

• Trey Hendrickson
• BJ Hill
• Sheldon Rankins
• Sam Hubbard
• Myles Murphy
• Joseph Ossai
• Kris Jenkins
• McKinnley Jackson
• Jay Tufele
• Cedric Johnson

“Cam Sample is out for the season, and that opens the door for Johnson to step up.” The defensive line has a strong starting four, but there are uncertainties beyond that. Murphy and Ossai will see regular rotation, but the interior line, especially against strong rushing teams, is still a question mark.

Linebacker (5)

• Logan Wilson
• Germaine Pratt
• Akeem Davis-Gaither
• Joe Bachie
• Maema Njongmeta

“Lou Anarumo typically keeps the Bengals in a nickel formation.” Wilson and Pratt are the key players in this group, with Davis-Gaither, Njongmeta, and Bachie contributing mainly on special teams. Njongmeta’s standout performance on Saturday night could secure his spot.

Cornerback (6)

• Cam Taylor-Britt
• DJ Turner II
• Mike Hilton
• Jalen Davis
• Dax Hill
• Josh Newton

“CTB, Turner, and Hilton will be the starters.” The cornerback group has a mix of young talent and experience. With DJ Ivey on PUP, the position seems secure, and Davis and Hill provide reliable backup options.

Safety (4)

• Geno Stone
• Vonn Bell
• Jordan Battle
• Daijahn Anthony

“Stone and Bell likely start, but I’m positive Battle gets his snaps.” The safety position is largely set, with the competition for the fourth spot heating up. Anthony’s solid performance on Saturday could edge him past Tycen Anderson, who didn’t play.

Specialists (3)

• Evan McPherson
• Cal Adomitis
• Brad Robbins

“McPherson and Adomitis are set.” The punter position remains competitive, with neither Robbins nor Rehkow pulling ahead in the preseason opener. The final decision may come down to future performances.

The Bengals’ preseason opener provided valuable insights into the roster, especially among the backups and bubble players. As the August 27 deadline approaches, these evaluations will shape the final 53-man roster.