Bengals Drop First Depth Chart of the Summer — And There Are Some Shockers
Football is finally back on the horizon, and the Cincinnati Bengals have kicked things off with their first official depth chart of the summer, just ahead of Thursday night’s preseason showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles. But let’s be real—calling it “official” might be pushing it a little.
Don’t Take the Chart Too Seriously… Or Should You?
Look, it’s preseason. Coaches love to play things close to the vest, and that’s why the depth chart feels more like a check-the-box PR move than a hard-core blueprint. These charts can sometimes say less about who’s truly winning reps and more about seniority, expectations, or simply roster clarity. But even so, there are some clear storylines buried in this chart, and fans shouldn't sleep on them.
Coaches often insist these charts don’t mean much—heck, Zac Taylor might even call it a "necessary evil." But if you read between the lines, this early version still gives us a sneak peek into which way the wind might be blowing heading into camp battles and the preseason slate.
Surprise Starter: Lucas Patrick at Right Guard
The first head-tilting move comes on the offensive line. Lucas Patrick, the free-agent signee who many assumed would be fighting for a backup role or veteran depth, has snatched the starting right guard job—for now, at least. That puts him ahead of Cody Ford on the current list, which could raise eyebrows.
Sure, this might not hold forever. There’s still a long camp ahead and plenty of shuffling to come. But you don’t just give a guy the starting nod unless the coaching staff sees something they like. Maybe it’s his experience. Maybe it’s his understanding of protections. Either way, Lucas Patrick is trending up fast.
A Rookie Makes Waves at Left Guard
Speaking of the trenches, another surprise comes at the opposite guard spot, where rookie Dylan Fairchild is already listed as the starter. The third-round pick was expected to compete, but many didn’t expect him to be holding the top spot this early.
This development raises a few important flags. First, it could mean the Bengals are confident enough in Fairchild’s technique and poise to throw him into the fire right away. Second, it shows that the O-line rebuild is still in full motion. Between Patrick and Fairchild, this unit could have a drastically different look in 2025.
Dax Hill’s Role Is Not What We Expected
Now here’s where things get spicy.
Dax Hill, who was heavily projected to start at boundary cornerback this offseason, has landed in the slot cornerback role instead. That’s a pivot almost no one saw coming. It also means Josh Newton, who many had pegged for the slot, is sitting behind Hill for now.
So what gives?
The best guess: Cam Taylor-Britt and DJ Turner must be absolutely killing it on the outside. Their strong play gives the Bengals flexibility, and if Hill’s speed and instincts make him a better fit inside, then so be it. This is a great problem to have—versatile DBs who can move around and match up wherever needed.
Demetrius Knight Jr. Slotted to Start at LB
Another rookie making a splash? Say hello to Demetrius Knight Jr., who has already slid into a starting linebacker role next to Logan Wilson. After Germaine Pratt’s departure, this was one of the biggest holes on the defense, and Knight seems to be filling it with confidence.
He’s long, athletic, and brings a bit of heat in the run game. It’s early, yes, but it says a lot that the Bengals are trusting a second-rounder to anchor the middle of their defense this soon. Of all the rookie placements on the chart, this one feels like it could stick for the long haul.
The Wide Receiver Situation Is… Complicated
Here’s where things get messy.
The official chart lists Andrei Iosivas as the third wideout, trailing behind Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins—no surprise there. But that doesn’t tell the whole story. Because if you’ve been following camp, you know that Mike Gesicki, listed behind tight end Drew Sample, is essentially functioning as a big-bodied slot receiver.
That’s right. Even though Gesicki shows up under the tight end category, he’s going to steal reps from Iosivas in the slot. He’s athletic, he’s got good hands, and he creates mismatches against linebackers. That means while Iosivas might be “WR3” on paper, it’s Gesicki who might be racking up more targets.
This kind of wrinkle is exactly why preseason depth charts can be misleading. It’s all about how the offense is built and how formations are designed. Labels aside, Gesicki is going to get fed in this offense.
Quick Notes & Hidden Gems
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Cam Taylor-Britt and DJ Turner are probably locking down the outside CB roles, hence Hill’s move inside.
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Rookies aren’t just filling gaps—they’re claiming real estate. Knight Jr. and Fairchild both have shots to start Week 1.
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Gesicki might be one of the biggest “X-factors” in this offense if used the right way. Don't be shocked if he becomes a favorite red-zone target.
Final Thoughts: It’s Early, But There’s a Lot to Like
Yes, this depth chart is far from gospel. But it’s still got fans and analysts buzzing, and for good reason. There’s movement in the trenches, a reshuffling in the secondary, and rookies already earning serious stripes.
It’s also a reminder that this Bengals team isn’t afraid to shake things up. New faces like Patrick and Fairchild are getting early opportunities. Veterans are being challenged. Even positional roles like slot corner and “tight end” are being used creatively.
With just days to go before the preseason kickoff against the Eagles, it’s safe to say one thing: the Bengals are quietly cooking something bold.
So, what should you watch Thursday night?
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Is Lucas Patrick really the guy at right guard?
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Can Dax Hill thrive in the slot?
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How much run does Gesicki get with the 1s?
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Do Knight Jr. and Fairchild hold their starting roles under live fire?
Keep your eyes peeled—because for all the talk about preseason being meaningless, this depth chart is full of meaning if you know where to look.
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