The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a crucial challenge in retaining their star players Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Trey Hendrickson. With an estimated $68 million in free cap space, they will need to make significant moves to keep these key players on board.
Chase is projected to command up to $40 million per year, while Higgins and Hendrickson are expected to earn around $30 million each. However, the Bengals have recently cleared up additional cap space by releasing defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins and cutting right guard Alex Cappa, saving an estimated $17.5 million.
The team is now considering other moves to free up more space. Sam Hubbard, a veteran player who struggled last season, could be cut outright to save $9.6 million. Alternatively, he could be kept at a reduced salary to mentor potential replacements.
Germaine Pratt, another linebacker, has requested a trade and missed 18 tackles in the 2024 season, saving the Bengals an estimated $5.8 million. Zack Moss, who missed much of the season with a neck injury, could also be released or brought back at a reduced salary to provide backup behind new starter Chase Brown.
Despite this progress, safety Geno Stone’s $8 million cap hit remains a concern. However, his recent performances have shown promise, and it’s likely he’ll return in 2025. By cutting Hubbard, Pratt, and Moss, the Bengals would save around $18 million in cap space, bringing their total available space to approximately $86 million.
This move could put them third among NFL teams behind only the New England Patriots and Las Vegas Raiders in terms of available cap space. While it’s uncertain whether this will be enough to retain all three star players, the Bengals’ willingness to make moves gives fans hope that they can secure their key players for years to come.
Source: https://www.cincyjungle.com/2025/3/3/24370760/cincinnati-bengals-cut-trade-candidates-alex-cappa-nfl-free-agency-2025