Bengals Sign New Linebacker To Active Roster + BAD Bengals Injury News & Samaje Perine's New Role

The Cincinnati Bengals are making a move to reinforce their defense by signing linebacker Jack Kiser to the active roster, but the team is also dealing with disappointing injury news involving tight end Tanner Hudson. Hudson is expected to miss the remainder of the 2026 season after suffering a torn pectoral muscle, creating another challenge for Cincinnati as it looks to maintain momentum following its 31-24 victory over the Miami Dolphins.

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Kiser arrives in Cincinnati after being claimed off waivers from the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday. The move comes after linebacker Swayze Bozeman suffered a broken forearm against Miami and was placed on injured reserve. Kiser, a former Notre Dame standout and fourth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, brings familiarity with defensive coordinator Al Golden's system. Golden coached Kiser at Notre Dame, where the linebacker played 70 career games and helped the Fighting Irish reach the national championship game. That connection could help Kiser get acclimated quickly and provide valuable depth at a position dealing with injuries.

The bigger concern, however, is Hudson's injury. The veteran tight end had recently been signed to the active roster after beginning the season on the practice squad. Against Miami, he caught three passes for 14 yards and a touchdown, providing a timely contribution to Cincinnati's passing attack. His seven receptions for 33 yards and a score this season don't fully capture his value as a reliable depth option and a player quarterback Joe Burrow can trust in key situations.

With Hudson likely sidelined for the rest of the year, Cincinnati could turn to rookie tight end Jack Endries for an expanded role behind Mike Gesicki, Drew Sample and Erick All. Endries has seen limited offensive action so far, making this a potential opportunity for the seventh-round pick to establish himself.

Ultimately, Kiser's arrival addresses an immediate defensive need, while Hudson's injury creates another obstacle on offense. The Bengals will need contributions from their depth players on both sides of the ball if they hope to remain competitive throughout the season.