Some unexpected drama unfolded in the Cincinnati Bengals‘ rookie minicamp. Zac Taylor’s team signed four draft picks on Thursday, leaving the two rookies still without a contract. But it came out worse when some reports appeared stating that one of those unsigned rookies isn’t participating in minicamp this time. But it’s not because of money. Strange! We are talking about Bengals rookie linebacker Demetrius Knight II.
According to MLFootball on X, “#Bengals 2nd-round LB Demetrius Knight II is not participating in drills because Cincinnati’s rookie waiver, unlike those of the other 31 #NFL teams, does not fully protect players….All NFL teams use waivers to protect unsigned rookies before contracts, but Cincinnati’s waiver only covers “disabling injuries,” according to league sources familiar with the language.”
In addition, the post also stated, “Sources say Knight and other non-participating Cincinnati rookies are not holding out for money but for complete protection and are aiming to change the waiver language for future Bengals draft picks.” However, let us tell you, this news is fake! Zac Taylor’s rookie reshared this post on hs official X account and said, “(laughing emojis) news to me! Had a great practice today and looking forward to practice tomorrow, thanks!”
news to me! Had a great practice today and looking forward to practice tomorrow, thanks! https://t.co/64TCNAr6nI
— Demetrius knight ll (@iam_the1knight) May 12, 2025
So, yeah, the news of him holding out is fake, and that the second round (49th overall) pick is participating in the camp every day with all his heart and soul. Besides this, Taylor’s team came with another major update regarding Trey Hendrickson.
We are all aware that Hendrickson is waiting for his contract extension as the 30-year-old is entering the final year of his deal that is set to pay him $15.8 million. So, will he be paid? As per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, “I understand he’s (Trey Hendrickson) mad. I do believe they’re going to pay him properly and eventually get this done, and he’ll be on the field, rich and happy. He wants a deal, but the team hasn’t shown the urgency that he wants. He deserves a raise. He is awesome, and he deserves more money. I believe they’re going to give it to him.”
The post Bengals Rookie Clears Stance on Skipping Minicamp Drills as Zac Taylor Gets Huge Trey Hendrickson Update appeared first on EssentiallySports.
