The Cincinnati Bengals signed LB Demetrius Knight Jr. to a historic contract in July 2025. See how this record deal impacts Shemar Stewart and the 2024 season.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Just as the pre-training camp quiet was setting in, the Cincinnati Bengals front office made a resounding statement. The team locked up second-round linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. with a groundbreaking four-year rookie contract, resolving a key piece of offseason business and potentially setting a new standard for second-round picks across the league.
A four-year rookie deal with nearly 80% of the contract fully guaranteed at signing—a first for the 49th overall pick in NFL history.
The Bengals didn't just sign their second-round pick; they made history. Amid a leaguewide trend of 2025 second-rounders holding out for more guaranteed money, Cincinnati stepped up, guaranteeing a reported 80% of Knight's deal. This is a significant philosophical shift for a team sometimes known for its fiscal caution, and it sends a clear message: they are willing to pay to secure their cornerstones. The move also shines a spotlight on the team's last remaining unsigned rookie, first-round pick Shemar Stewart. While Stewart's deal remains in negotiation, the team's willingness to be aggressive with Knight's guarantees could be the catalyst needed to get the top pick into camp on time.
As players prepare to report, the team made a couple of expected roster moves. Tight end Erick All Jr. was placed on the Active/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list as he continues his recovery from last season's ACL tear. Meanwhile, rookie center Seth McLaughlin landed on the Active/Non-Football Injury (NFI) list while working back from a torn Achilles. Fans shouldn't panic; these are procedural moves that allow both players to continue rehabbing with the team without counting against the active roster. It's a precautionary step to ensure two potentially key depth pieces are 100% before they hit the field.
These offseason maneuvers are all designed to build upon a solid, if not spectacular, 2025 campaign. A quick look back at the numbers shows a team that was good, but had room to be great. The Bengals finished 10-7, averaging an efficient 27.06 points per game with 36 passing touchdowns. The defense was stout, allowing just 22.12 points per game and finishing with a neutral turnover differential. Adding a dynamic linebacker like Knight is a direct investment in improving that defensive figure and tilting the turnover battle in Cincinnati's favor. The stats show a winning formula is in place; now it's about adding the pieces to elevate it to a championship level.
With a major rookie contract resolved and the roster taking shape, all eyes now turn to the opening of training camp. The final piece of the puzzle is getting Shemar Stewart's signature on a deal, but the front office's move with Knight suggests a resolution is near. The foundation is set, the business is getting handled, and soon, the focus will shift entirely to the field as the Bengals gear up for another run.
