Cincinnati, OH – March 12, 2025 – The Cincinnati Bengals have re-signed defensive end Cam Sample to a one-year deal, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
The move has elicited a range of reactions from the Bengals’ fanbase, reflecting both cautious optimism and frustration.
Sample, selected in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft from Tulane, missed the entire 2024 season due to an Achilles injury but offers valuable run-stopping ability to a defense that lost Sam Hubbard in free agency. With 47 regular-season games played, five career sacks—including a postseason sack on Patrick Mahomes in 2022—and a career-high 29 tackles in 2023, the 26-year-old adds depth to a unit aiming to rebound in the AFC North. While not a marquee signing, Sample’s return aligns with head coach Zac Taylor’s focus on building a physical, gritty defense for the 2025 season.
Fan reaction on Twitter has been mixed, with many expressing disappointment over the lack of splashier moves. Some fans sarcastically questioned whether the Bengals are simply “running it back” with the same roster, while others voiced frustration, calling it the “wrong re-signing” and urging the team to pursue high-profile free agents or address other needs like the offensive line. However, a few defended the move, noting Sample’s potential impact in run defense and the team’s need for stability after Hubbard’s departure.
As the Bengals navigate a critical offseason, all eyes are on general manager Duke Tobin and the front office to make bolder additions before the 2025 season begins. Sample’s re-signing keeps the defense intact, but it’s clear fans are hungry for more significant upgrades to push the team back into playoff contention.
