Bengals Finalize 53-Man Roster, Eye Waiver Claims for Blue, Dodson

Key points

• The Bengals released QB Josh Johnson, WR Charlie Jones, and DT McKinnley Jackson, while keeping Dohnte Meyers and Landon Robinson on the 53-man roster.
• Cincy Jungle suggests the Bengals should claim Cowboys RB Jaydon Blue and Dolphins LB Tyrel Dodson off waivers to improve depth.
• The team kept four linebackers on the initial roster, creating a potential opening for a fifth player like Red Murdock or Tyrel Dodson.
• Offensive line decisions remain tight, with Javon Foster and Jalen Rivers performing well in the preseason finale against the Eagles.
• The Bengals are considering IR-return moves for defensive linemen to open up roster spots, particularly regarding Shemar Stewart.

Background

The Bengals had a highly successful August, finishing their preseason with a 30-13 win against the Eagles. Prior to the cuts, the team was evaluating several bubble players, including Dohnte Meyers and Landon Robinson, who ultimately made the roster. The team also considered claiming Arizona’s Trey Benson off waivers earlier in the week but ultimately moved in a different direction with their final cuts.

How outlets are covering it

Cincy Jungle emphasizes the need for the Bengals to claim Jaydon Blue and Tyrel Dodson to upgrade depth at running back and linebacker, respectively. Cincinnati Bengals Roster highlights the tight competition at tight end and offensive line, noting that Javon Foster and Jalen Rivers performed well in the preseason finale. The Cincinnati Enquirer focuses on the specific players released and retained, noting that Josh Johnson was praised by head coach Zac Taylor despite being cut, and that Charlie Jones was released after serving as the primary returner for three seasons.

Why it matters

The final roster decisions and potential waiver claims will shape the Bengals' depth and flexibility for the 2026 NFL season. Securing players like Jaydon Blue or Tyrel Dodson could provide immediate upgrades at key positions, while the team's ability to manage its roster through IR-return moves will impact its overall competitiveness.

What to watch

The Bengals will monitor waiver claims on Monday, August 31, 2026, to see if they can add players like Jaydon Blue or Tyrel Dodson. The team will also finalize its 16-player practice squad, which may include players like Howard Cross III and Mitch Tinsley. The Bengals will begin their regular season in a few weeks, with the first game likely against a divisional opponent.