Man Roster Heading Into Preseason Finale
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- The Cincinnati Bengals aim for their first undefeated preseason since 2006 as they face the Eagles in Philadelphia, with roster cuts from 88 to 53 players imminent within 48 hours after the game.
- Key roster decisions are largely settled, including starters like Joe Burrow at quarterback and Ja'Marr Chase at wide receiver, but some spots remain competitive, especially for practice squad positions.
- Notable battles include the backup quarterback role, wide receiver depth, and defensive line positions, with several players on the bubble hoping to secure practice squad spots.
- The Bengals' offensive line will likely start with the same five players as in the previous finale for the first time since 2010, while the defensive line group faces uncertainty regarding potential trades and injury returns.
- Special teams roles are locked in with Evan McPherson as kicker, Ryan Rehkow as punter, and William Wagner as long snapper, with no competition brought in for these spots.
