Bengals Name Their Practice Squad

Jul 26, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Devon Still (75) runs drills during training camp at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

The Bengals officially named their practice squad today.  They were able to retain most of the expected players, which keeps with the Bengals M.O.  The Bengals took advantage of the NFL’s expanded practice squad eligibility rules by resigning defensive tackle Devon Still and veteran center Trevor Robinson.  Both have played for the Bengals the past two years, but have been unable to make an impact on the field.

The team chose to retain four other offensive players in addition to Trevor Robinson: fan favorite, running back James Wilder, Jr., offensive tackle Dan France, wide receiver/returner Colin Lockett, and rookie tight end Kevin Greene.  Greene is a rookie out of USC who was cut by the 49ers. After working out for the Bengals recently, the team chose to sign him to the practice squad.

In addition to Still, the Bengals chose to keep three other defensive players thus far: defensive ends David King and Sam Montgomery, and cornerback Onterio McCalebb.  Montgomery is a former third round pick of the Houston Texans (in 2013) after being a two-time All-SEC player and one-time All-American.  He’s supremely talented, but developed a reputation for being lazy last year.  McCalebb is a favorite of the Bengals for his speed.  He can make an excellent returner, but since joining the NFL, the Bengals have been working to transition McCalebb from college running back to NFL cornerback (because he lacks the necessary size at running back).

The Bengals have left a spot open thus far.  I’m sure the team will eventually fill the spot, but may be waiting to see what happens with a other players they currently cut such as Cobi Hamilton.  The Bengals may also be waiting to work out some outside options in hopes of finding a new player who can help the team.