Bengals 53-Man Roster Is SET! Biggest Surprises, Shocking Cuts & What It Means For Cincinnati

The Bengals have officially trimmed their roster to 53 players, and there were some notable decisions along the way.

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Cincinnati kept two quarterbacks in Joe Burrow and Joe Flacco, giving the team an experienced backup behind its franchise quarterback. The Bengals also kept three running backs: Chase Brown, Samaje Perine and rookie Tahj Brooks.

The biggest strength of the roster may be the offensive skill position groups. Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins remain the foundation at receiver, while Cincinnati kept four additional wideouts in Colbie Young, Andrei Iosivas, Dohnte Meyers and Ke'Shawn Williams.

The Bengals also kept five tight ends, with Mike Gesicki, Drew Sample, Tanner Hudson, Erick All Jr. and seventh-round pick Jack Endries making the roster. Endries’ performance was strong enough that Cincinnati decided not to risk losing him on waivers.

There were some difficult cuts. Charlie Jones, who had been an important return specialist, was released despite his production in that role. Veteran quarterback Josh Johnson was also let go. Defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson and defensive end Isaiah Foskey were among the other notable players who failed to make the 53.

The Bengals' decisions show just how much competition there was throughout camp. Cincinnati finished the preseason 3-0, and several players who performed well still couldn't find a spot because of the depth at their positions.

For now, this is the roster Cincinnati will take into the regular season. But it won't necessarily remain unchanged. Waiver claims, practice-squad additions and potential injuries will continue to shape the team over the next several days.

The cuts are finished. Now the real test begins.

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