Bengals Free Agent Hints At Departure With Cryptic Tweet

Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Mike Hilton is not the biggest name on the free agent market, but the eight-year veteran should draw some interest once the legal tampering period begins. Originally joining the team in 2021, Hilton is coming off a solid season, recording one interception and breaking up five passes while posting a 75.9 PFF grade, the 15th-best mark out of 116 eligible players. PFF is higher on him than most other analysts, but he’s a solid slot cornerback who should see plenty of playing time in 2025.

However, based on a recent tweet, Mike Hilton will not return to the Bengals as a free agent. Taking to the internet, the cornerback posted that “new opportunities always present themselves.” While he didn’t specifically mention Cincinnati by name, it’s easy to read between the lines. The Bengals must pay Tee Higgins, Trey Hendrickson, and Ja’Marr Chase in the immediate future, and Hilton is the odd man out. While the Bengals may not have the money for him, the following four teams could make a move for the veteran.

Free Agent Mike Hilton Says Goodbye to Bengals In Cryptic Tweet

Possible Fits

New England Patriots

The New England Patriots need help at just about every position except for quarterback. Fortunately, they currently possess over $127 million in cap space and should have no difficulty rebuilding their roster with all the free agents money can buy. 2023 first-round pick Christian Gonzalez has already established himself as one of the game’s best cornerbacks, but longtime slot cornerback Jonathan Jones is slowing down. With Jones set to reach the open market, New England could upgrade and sign Hilton.

Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders made it to the NFC Championship Game with one of the league’s weaker secondaries and not much depth at the wide receiver position. They solved their pass-catching woes with the Deebo Samuel trade, but now it’s time for them to turn their attention to the defensive side of the ball. Marshon Lattimore did not play up to expectations during his limited time on the field last year, and this team could use another cornerback even if the former Saint can recapture his prior glory. Washington’s arrow is pointing up for the first time in recent memory, but they won’t take the next step without improving their passing defense.

Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers successfully made their offense watchable in 2024, but that success came at the expense of the defense. With all the offensive pieces due back for another year, Carolina must now fix a defense that ranked at or near the bottom of almost every metric out there. Pro Bowler Jaycee Horn finally stayed healthy, but he can’t lock down every single receiver on the field. Mike Hilton will give this team a much-needed defensive boost as a free agent, especially if the team can also re-sign Mike Jackson after his breakout year.

Kansas City Chiefs

On paper, the Kansas City Chiefs have two reliable cornerbacks in superstar Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson. However, last year showed how important depth is, as the unit took a hit when Watson missed time due to injury. A retired Steven Nelson was the best band-aid the team could find, and the veteran is not getting any younger. The trio of McDuffie, Watson, and Hilton could be one of the league’s best, and stopping the pass is crucial when opposing teams constantly throw to keep up with Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City’s offense.