Cincinnati Bengals
· 2026-07-14
The Cincinnati Bengals are actively pursuing former Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who recorded 727 yards and 5 touchdowns last season, as the AFC North rivals enter free agency with a clear WR3 need. With Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins anchoring the offense, Samuel would provide depth—especially if Higgins faces more injury setbacks in 2026.
The Bengals, currently 11th in the AFC at 6-11 and on a 1-game losing streak, face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers next on September 13. Adding Samuel could address a long-standing weakness at WR3, where the team has struggled to land a reliable third option despite multiple draft attempts.
Cameron Sheath of PFSN noted the Bengals’ receiver corps lacks a true third-down weapon, a role Samuel could fill immediately. Last season, he ranked 26th on PFN’s WR Impact Rankings, proving he can step into a high-volume role without overwhelming the offense.
The Bengals’ offense, led by Joe Burrow and Tyler Burbridge, thrives on depth. Samuel’s speed and route-running would complement Chase’s elite hands and Higgins’ big-play ability. But the fit isn’t without cost: at $17 million, Samuel would replace Higgins as the team’s second WR, pushing the cap further.
While the Kansas City Chiefs are also pursuing Samuel, their interest stems from easing pressure on Travis Kelce—a move that would be more affordable for Andy Reid’s perennial contenders. The Chiefs, with Rashee Rice and Marvin Harrison Jr. emerging, could use Samuel as a red-zone and third-down option.
For the Bengals, however, the calculus is different. They don’t need another elite WR but could use a proven veteran to stabilize the WR3 spot. Samuel’s experience in two Super Bowls—both with Reid—adds intrigue, though his age (32) and durability questions loom.
The Bengals’ front office has been criticized for failing to land a WR3 in past drafts, and Samuel’s free agency presents a rare chance to address that. If the team moves quickly, they could secure a player who fits their scheme without breaking the bank.
But with Ja’Marr Chase and Higgins under contract, the Bengals must weigh Samuel’s value against other needs. Their next move could define their offense’s depth heading into the 2026 season—especially after a 6-11 start that leaves them in the AFC’s middle tier.
Samuel’s potential landing with the Bengals hinges on two factors: cap space and Higgins’ health. If the team can afford him, he’d provide immediate production—a critical upgrade for an offense that needs reliable targets behind Burrow.
The Chiefs remain the favorites, but the Bengals’ interest underscores their desperation for a true No. 3 receiver. With the Buccaneers looming on September 13, the team’s next move at WR could be the difference between a playoff push and another mid-tier season.