Bengals quietly take lead in free agency with veteran tight end signing to one-year extension originally appeared on The Sporting News. Click here to add Sports News as your go-to source.
After the 2025 NFL season ends, the Cincinnati Bengals will have a busy and important offseason.
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While many eyes will be on the defense, especially Trey Hendrickson, the offense cannot be ignored. Fortunately, the Bengals have begun to address their offensive issues.
The Bengals and one of their tight ends, Tanner Hudson, have agreed to a one-year contract extension through the 2026 season, according to Ari Meirov of The 33rd.
Bengals extend TE ahead of free agency
“The Bengals and TE Tanner Hudson have agreed to a one-year contract extension,” Meloff reported, “which prevents him from becoming a free agent in March.”
By opting out before free agency, the Bengals ensure one less position to worry about this offseason.
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Mike Gesicki signed for a few years, while Drew Sample and Noah Fant formed the tight end space ahead of Hudson.
However, the Bengals use their tight ends often, and Hudson had 19 catches for 168 yards and two touchdowns last season.
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That’s not insignificant production, and the 31-year-old tight end understands the offense so well that there’s no reason to let him go considering he’s still a solid player.
This isn’t an expensive extension, and while the specifics of the extension are unclear at this time, it won’t be a deal that will hurt their chances of signing free agents this offseason.
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This is a smart extension for the Bengals. It would be wise to opt out before free agency, especially since now the Bengals don’t have to worry about another team swooping in and signing him this offseason.
