The Cincinnati Bengals have the reputation of being one of the most frugal teams in the NFL when it comes to paying their players. However, the Bengals bucked this trend somewhat when they signed both of their star wide receivers to massive contracts, including making Ja’Marr Chase the highest-paid non-quarterback by annual value in NFL history at the time of the signing.
Now, Cincinnati is showing its willingness to spend once again, this time making history with one of its rookies, according to one prominent league insider.
“Sources: The #Bengals and 2nd-round LB Demetrius Knight Jr. have agreed to a 4-year rookie deal with nearly 80 percent fully guaranteed at signing. It’s the first time in NFL history that the 49th pick has had guarantees in year four. With Cincinnati’s rookies reporting to camp today, the standout LB out of South Carolina is now officially under contract and ready to go,” reported Jordan Schultz on Saturday.
Fans reacted to the news on social media.
“Knight handled his contract negotiations with class and the Bengals rewarded him,” one fan wrote on Twitter.
“All the 2nd rounders are looking for guarantees. The first two picks in the round got it. So the rest of them were waiting to sign to see how far it trickles. lol the bengals fucked it up because everyone before him will expect same or more. Now 2-16 have to sign with guarantees,” another fan added.
“The coveted fourth year guarantees for the 49th pick. We thought this day would never come,” someone else wrote.
It’ll be interesting to see if this sets a precedent around the league moving forward.
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.