Mitchell Tinsley is quickly picked up by Texans

CINCINNATI, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 14: Mitchell Tinsley #82 of the Cincinnati Bengals catches a touchdown pass during the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the NFL 2025 game between Jacksonville Jaguars and Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Mitchell Tinsley was perhaps the most uplifting story out of the Cincinnati Bengals' 2025 training camp.

The undrafted receiver made acrobatic catch after acrobatic catch in practice and the preseason to earn a spot on the roster and the opportunity to play in the regular season.

He went on to play in all 17 regular season games and get eight receptions for 116 yards and two touchdowns.

Introducing Mitchell Tinsley!

JAXvsCIN on CBS/Paramount+https://t.co/HkKw7uXVntpic.twitter.com/cGZdTH7FtR

- NFL (@NFL) September 14, 2025

But then another underdog, Dohnte Meyers, made the roster yesterday, as did fourth-rounder Colbie Young out of Georgia. All of a sudden, there was no longer a need for Tinsley's abilities.

But less than a day after he was cut by the Bengals, Tinsley was signed to the Houston Texans' practice squad.

#Texans signing former #Bengals#Commanders receiver Mitchell Tinsley to practice squad, per league source. Eight career catches, 116 yards, two touchdowns pic.twitter.com/A5VHbRjGdh

- Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) August 31, 2026

The good news is that Tinsley could end up being a major contributor in Houston, where they've struggled to find good role playing receivers.

In the end, it's a win-win for a Bengals team that might finally have their WR3 and Tinsley, who deserves the chance to be on the field to make eye-popping plays.