In a significant roster move, the Cincinnati Bengals have released veteran defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins, a former first-round draft pick of the New Orleans Saints. This decision, announced on Friday, frees up $9.6 million in cap space for the Bengals.
Rankins, 30, joined the Bengals last offseason on a two-year contract worth $24.5 million, aiming to bolster Cincinnati’s defensive front. However, his tenure was marred by a hamstring injury and a viral illness, limiting him to just seven starts in the 2024 season. During these appearances, he recorded 18 tackles and one sack before being placed on the non-football illness list in December.
Originally drafted 12th overall by the Saints in 2016, Rankins showcased his potential early in his career. Over five seasons in New Orleans, he accumulated 17.5 sacks and 44 quarterback hits. Subsequent stints with the New York Jets and Houston Texans added to his experience, bringing his career totals to 30.5 sacks and 69 quarterback hits over 116 games.
The Bengals’ decision to release Rankins not only provides financial flexibility but also signals a potential shift in their defensive strategy. With several defensive linemen set to enter free agency, including B.J. Hill and Joseph Ossai, Cincinnati faces critical decisions in the upcoming offseason to reinforce their defensive front.
As Rankins enters free agency, his experience and track record could attract teams seeking to enhance their interior defensive line. Meanwhile, the Bengals will look to reallocate resources to address both defensive needs and other key areas as they prepare for the 2025 season
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