Positive injury update on B.J. Hill ahead of Bengals training camp

Jul 23, 2025; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill (92) walks on the field during training camp at Kettering Health Practice Field. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Last week, Cincinnati Bengals fans were hit out of nowhere with news that defensive tackle B.J. Hill was placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list. After starting all 17 games last season and appeared to be fine all offseason.

There weren't many reports on what the injury was, but Hill did start last season on PUP with an ankle injury and may have had an additional procedure on it after the season. With the retooled defensive front expected to be a strength of the Bengals' defense, Hill's uncertain status was concerning.

Members of the Bengals' front office met with the media Monday for their annual, pre-camp luncheon, and Bengals Director of Player Personnel Duke Tobin gave a positive update on Hill's status.

Duke Tobin says B.J. Hill (ankle) is getting very close" but they are being cautious coming off an offseason procedure.

He will begin camp working off to the side with the training staff.

- Charlie Clifford (@char_cliff) July 27, 2026

Tobin's update seems reassuring and could model the same timeline we saw for Hill when camp opened last season. Hill is essentially a lock to make the roster alongside Dexter Lawrence II, so his absence at the start of camp will provide coaches more looks at reserve players that will fight for spots to round out the defensive tackle room.

Hopefully, Hill will be back on the field soon, but until then, several players have a chance to try to capitalize and impress the coaching staff as camp gets off and running.