Bengals Star Misses Third Straight Practice Due to Injury

Hill is entering the final year of his contract. The Bengals exercised his fifth-year option last offseason. Hill had a breakout campaign after being moved to outside cornerback.

Hill joins DJ Turner in the secondary as two top returning pieces on a defense that has plenty of fresh faces. Both cornerbacks are entering the final year of their respective contracts. Hill appeared to suffer a hamstring injury last week. His injury isn't considered serious, but missing three-straight practices is noteworthy.

Hill's Absence Creates Opportunities for Other Cornerbacks

DJ Ivey has received additional first-team opportunities in training camp while Hill has been sidelined. Ivey has made the most of those snaps, including breaking up multiple passes while matched up against star wideout Tee Higgins.

Beyond Ivey, rookie Tacario Davis and veteran Jalen Davis could also see expanded opportunities in the preseason. Tacario offers rare length on the outside, while Jalen brings experience to bolster the defense. Their versatility gives the Bengals several options with Hill sidelined.

When healthy, Hill is projected to start opposite DJ Turner II in Cincinnati's revamped 2026 defense. Before the tightness surfaced, Hill was among the defense's top performers early in training camp, earning significant praise from his teammates.

“I've said it over the years — nobody can do what he does,” Turner said recently when discussing Hill’s versatility.

Despite his versatility and history of moving between safety, slot cornerback, and outside cornerback throughout his career, Hill is expected to remain on the outside this season.

Hill, 25, is entering the final year of his rookie contract after the Bengals declined his fifth-year option. He recorded 88 tackles in 17 games last season, along with 11 pass deflections, two tackles for loss, and one interception. His health will be important for both his future, whether with the Bengals or not, and for Cincinnati's defense, which is eyeing a major jump this season.

For more on Hill and Turner's future, watch the video below: