The Cincinnati Bengals have bolstered their practice squad by signing defensive tackle Domenique Davis and linebacker Craig Young, aiming to enhance their defensive depth as the season progresses.
Domenique Davis: A Familiar Face Returns
Domenique Davis, standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 330 pounds, is no stranger to the Bengals organization. A first-year player from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Davis initially entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the New York Jets in 2020. Although his stint with the Jets was brief, he found a more extended opportunity with the Bengals, joining their practice squad at the start of the 2022 season. During his time with Cincinnati, Davis appeared in two games in 2022, recording three tackles.
Earlier this season, Davis remained with the Bengals’ practice squad until his release on October 22. He then had a short tenure with the Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice squad, signing on November 5 and being released on December 6. His return to Cincinnati on December 24 signifies the team’s continued interest in his potential to contribute to their defensive line.
Craig Young: Adding Versatility to the Linebacker Corps
Craig Young, a 6-foot-3, 225-pound linebacker, brings versatility and athleticism to the Bengals’ practice squad. A rookie out of the University of Kansas, Young began his collegiate career at Ohio State before transferring to Kansas for the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Despite a solid college career, he went undrafted in 2024 but was quickly picked up by the Indianapolis Colts as a free agent. After being waived during final roster cuts, Young spent time on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice squad from October 16 to November 5. His signing with the Bengals on December 24 offers him a fresh opportunity to showcase his skills at the professional level.
Strategic Implications for the Bengals
The addition of Davis and Young to the practice squad reflects the Bengals’ strategic approach to maintaining depth and flexibility within their defensive unit. Davis’s familiarity with the Bengals’ defensive schemes and his experience within the organization make him a valuable asset, particularly in situations requiring immediate integration due to injuries or rotational needs.
Young’s versatility, stemming from his experience at both Ohio State and Kansas, provides the Bengals with a dynamic option at linebacker. His athleticism and ability to adapt to various defensive roles could prove beneficial as the team navigates the latter part of the season and prepares for potential postseason play.
Looking Ahead: Bengals vs. Steelers
The Bengals are set to face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 5:00 PM PST. This matchup carries significant weight in the AFC North standings, and the depth provided by players like Davis and Young could be crucial in managing the physical demands of such a rivalry game.
As the Bengals continue to make strategic roster adjustments, the contributions of practice squad players will be essential in sustaining the team’s performance and addressing any unforeseen challenges that may arise due to injuries or other factors.
In conclusion, the signings of Domenique Davis and Craig Young underscore the Bengals’ commitment to reinforcing their defensive lineup with players who offer both familiarity and versatility. As the season progresses, these additions may play a pivotal role in the team’s pursuit of success in the highly competitive AFC North division.