Bengals Ink Linebacker Davis-Gaither to One-Year Extension

In a move to bolster their linebacker depth and special teams unit, the Cincinnati Bengals have reportedly agreed to terms with veteran Akeem Davis-Gaither on a one-year contract extension worth approximately $3 million, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.

The 48-hour negotiating window for unrestricted free agents opened on Monday, allowing teams to discuss contract terms with players before the official start of free agency on Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET. Davis-Gaither, a former fourth-round pick by the Bengals in 2020, chose to remain with the team despite potentially having opportunities for more defensive playing time elsewhere.

During his four-year tenure in Cincinnati, Davis-Gaither has played in 54 regular-season games, primarily contributing as a core special teams player while making only four starts on defense. His role on the defensive side of the ball has been limited, playing behind starters Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt, but his value on special teams has been evident.

In the 2021 season, Davis-Gaither’s campaign was cut short due to a foot injury suffered in Week 9, sidelining him for the remainder of the year. This past season, he appeared in 13 games but saw action on just 12 percent of the defensive snaps.

Despite the limited defensive opportunities, Davis-Gaither’s decision to re-sign with the Bengals suggests a level of comfort and familiarity with the organization, as well as a potential path to an increased role in the future. The one-year deal allows both parties to re-evaluate their situation after the 2023 campaign.

The Bengals’ linebacking corps has been a strength in recent years, with Wilson and Pratt forming a formidable starting duo. However, depth and special teams contributions remain essential components for any successful team, and Davis-Gaither’s return addresses those needs.

As the Bengals continue to shape their roster for the upcoming season, retaining a veteran presence like Davis-Gaither, who understands the system and has proven his value on special teams, could pay dividends. While his defensive snaps may still be limited, his impact on the field and in the locker room should not be underestimated.

With the free agency frenzy set to begin on Wednesday, the Bengals have made an early move to secure a familiar face and valuable contributor to their linebacking group. As the team looks to build upon their recent success and make another push for a championship, the depth and versatility provided by players like Davis-Gaither could prove crucial in navigating the rigors of an NFL season.