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Cincinnati Bengals Activate Defensive Lineman, Add Former UC Cornerback
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- Cincinnati Bengals Activate Defensive Lineman, Add Former UC Cornerback
(USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect)
The Cincinnati Bengals announced two roster moves Saturday, activating defensive lineman B.J. Hill off the physically unable to perform list and signing former University of Cincinnati cornerback Matthew McDoom.
Hill dealt with nagging foot and ankle injuries last season that culminated in a procedure during the offseason. He passed a physical and has been cleared to practice and join the team throughout the conclusion of training camp and the preseason.
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The former third-round pick is entering his sixth season with the Bengals after spending his first three years with the Giants. He has become a staple of Cincinnati's defensive line and has been a consistent first-team player, starting all 17 games last season and recording 66 total tackles, five tackles for loss and four sacks.
He'll likely see his snap count decrease this season with the additions of Dexter Lawrence and Jonathan Allen , but Hill has become one of the most dependable veterans on the Bengals' defense.
McDoom began his collegiate career at Coastal Carolina before transferring to Cincinnati ahead of the 2025 season, and he became an important part of the Bearcats' defense. He started 12 games at cornerback, tallying 50 total tackles and making arguably the best defensive play of the entire season by returning an interception 100 yards for a touchdown against Oklahoma State.
The 23-year-old cornerback went undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft before signing with Baltimore as a free agent. The Ravens then waived him Aug. 8, and McDoom now makes a return to Cincinnati one week later. He was a part of the Bengals' local pro day back in April, so the connection was already there.
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At 5-foot-9, 180 pounds, it is unknown where McDoom will land on the depth chart upon arrival, but expect him to be battling for a reserve role or practice squad spot.
The Bengals made the decision to sign McDoom following cornerback Ceyair Wright 's departure from the team to explore other opportunities. Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reported that Wright left the team to pursue an acting career after he was offered a lead role in a big movie.
Saturday's roster moves give Cincinnati a boost to its defense, and both players will have the opportunity to make an impression as the Bengals continue to evaluate their roster with the regular season inching closer. Hill's return provides another experienced presence along the defensive line, while McDoom adds more young talent and depth to the secondary.
