Cincinnati Bengals Release Defensive Tackle Sheldon Rankins After One Season

The move saves $9.6 million in cap space as the team evaluates its roster following a disappointing 2024 season.

Sheldon Rankins signed a two-year, $24.5 million deal with the Bengals in 2024 but played only seven games due to injuries and illness.
Rankins recorded one sack, 18 tackles, and one quarterback hit during his brief stint in Cincinnati.
The Bengals will save $9.6 million in salary cap space with the release, while incurring a $2 million dead cap hit.
Injuries, including a hamstring issue, and a viral illness sidelined Rankins for 10 games, leading to his placement on the non-football injured reserve list in Week 18.
The Bengals are focusing on reshaping their roster as they prepare for potential contract extensions for key players like Ja'Marr Chase and Trey Hendrickson.