The Cincinnati Bengals entered their Week 8 matchup against the New York Jets looking to build momentum, but instead absorbed a 39-38 defeat that exposed lingering concerns.
Now at 3-5 and second in the AFC North, the Bengals face mounting pressure to address roster weaknesses before their playoff hopes slip further away.
The loss highlighted depth issues across multiple positions, particularly with quarterback Joe Burrow still recovering from injury.
Cincinnati wasted little time responding, making three roster moves as the season reaches its midpoint.
According to Paul Dehner Jr., the Bengals released defensive tackle Mike Pennel while placing center Matt Lee and linebacker Shaka Heyward on injured reserve.
Bengals released DT Mike Pennel. They also have placed C Matt Lee and LB Shaka Hayward on IR.
Clears three roster spots without any additions … yet. https://t.co/svFCjYHNs5
— Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) October 28, 2025
Pennel appeared in all eight games this season, recording 15 combined tackles and one tackle for loss.
Signed to the practice squad, he was promoted quickly to bolster a run defense that needed size in the middle.
His role remained limited behind B.J. Hill, Kris Jenkins Jr. and T.J. Slaton Jr., totaling 133 defensive snaps through the first half of the season.
The Kansas City Chiefs released Pennel during final cuts despite his three sacks in 2024, and his time in Cincinnati was in a similar role as a situational contributor.
Heyward suffered a fracture in his fibula against the Jets, cutting short his season.
The backup linebacker logged just seven defensive snaps overall, contributing primarily on special teams.
Lee served as offensive line depth, appearing on field goal and extra point units.
Cincinnati now holds three open roster spots as the NFL trade deadline approaches on Nov. 4.
The Bengals face the Chicago Bears in Week 9 before entering their bye week, followed by a divisional clash with the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 11.
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