Jan 29, 2025; Mobile, AL, USA; American team linebacker Demetrius Knight II of South Carolina (17) works in drills during Senior Bowl practice for the National team at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images

Cincinnati Bengals Signing Key Draft Pick With Rookies Reporting for Training Camp

Originally posted on Cincinnati Bengals on SI
By James Rapien | Last updated Jul 19, 2025 11:43 AM ET

The Bengals have signed rookie linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. to a four-year contract that includes 80% guaranteed according to Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports.

Knight was selected by the Bengals in the second round (49th overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft.

He's expected to start alongside Logan Wilson. Bengals' rookies are scheduled to report for training camp on Saturday. Veterans will report on Tuesday with their first full practice as a team on Wednesday, July 23.

First round pick Shemar Stewart is the only rookie the Bengals haven't signed.

Sources: The #Bengals and 2nd-round LB Demetrius Knight Jr. have agreed to a 4-year rookie deal with nearly 80 percent fully guaranteed at signing. It’s the first time in NFL history that the 49th pick has had guarantees in year four.

With Cincinnati’s rookies reporting to camp… pic.twitter.com/Vfc44XKhCQ
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) July 19, 2025