Bengals News: Practice Squad Watch

CINCINNATI, OH - AUGUST 22: Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Sean Clifford (4) carries the ball during the preseason game between the Chicago Bears and the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium on August 22, 2026 in Cincinnati, OH. (Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Cincinnati Bengals were tasked with cutting their roster down to 53 players by Sunday and a lot of tough decisions had to be made. With depth in multiple position groups, the Bengals had players they hoped would clear waivers so they could have them back on their practice squad.

After the initial 24 hour waiver period, they were able to retain 11 players early on with room to add up to five more.

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It would be shocking for the Bengals to stay at an 11-man practice squad leading up to Week 1. It behooves them to have as many players in the building as possible, especially with two currently on the Reserve/Injured list. I expect more moves to come shortly."

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With the Bengals' tackle depth in question, they claimed a young prospect that they will hope Scott Peters can get the best out of him.

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Among the surprises were the Bengals going super light at linebacker with just four names, while also keeping just three running backs."

3 players Bengals need to sign immediately after waiver wire deadline

The waiver deadline is only one avenue for improving the roster. Sunday's league-wide cuts also dumped several experienced veterans onto the open market, while some notable free agents who spent the entire summer unsigned remain available.

For a Bengals team with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations, there are still opportunities to turn questionable areas of the roster into strengths before Week 1.