The Cincinnati Bengals enter Week 9 with a 3-5 record that places them second in the AFC North but well behind the conference’s playoff picture.
Despite the uphill climb, the organization continues working to address weaknesses and build momentum for the second half of the season.
Ahead of their matchup against the Chicago Bears, Cincinnati made several roster moves aimed at bolstering a defense that has struggled to find consistency.
The Bengals promoted linebacker Joe Giles-Harris from the practice squad to the active roster on Thursday.
They also signed linebackers Liam Anderson and Brian Asamoah II to the practice squad while releasing defensive end Myles Cole in a corresponding transaction.
We have made the following roster moves ⤵️
?: https://t.co/4MFrIaz2SW pic.twitter.com/tkvYLs6mSz
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) October 30, 2025
The changes reflect an effort to add depth and competition to a unit searching for answers.
Giles-Harris has experienced an inconsistent path with Cincinnati since signing in April 2025.
The linebacker spent the first seven games of the season on the practice squad before being elevated for the Week 8 contest against the Jets.
His promotion marks another opportunity to contribute to defense and special teams.
Anderson brings size and athleticism at 6-foot-3 and 230 pounds.
The Holy Cross product signed with the Colts as a college free agent in 2023 and appeared in four games over two seasons.
He spent most of his time on Indianapolis’ practice squad before being waived in August.
Asamoah arrives with more experience after three seasons with the Minnesota Vikings.
The 6-foot-1, 230-pound linebacker from Oklahoma was a third-round pick in 2022 and appeared in 46 games.
He recorded 20 tackles, two forced fumbles, one recovery, and 10 special teams tackles during his time there.
After spending the first half of this season on the Raiders’ practice squad, Asamoah now provides veteran depth to Cincinnati’s linebacker rotation as the team works to stabilize its defensive performance.
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