Bengals Waiver Wire: 5 Post-Cut Targets to Bolster Cincinnati's Roster

As the Cincinnati Bengals finalize their 53-man roster following Sunday's cuts, the front office is now scanning the waiver wire for potential upgrades. With the regular season looming, the Bengals have a few areas where they could add depth or competition. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, here are five players Cincinnati should consider claiming or signing this week.

RB Jaydon Blue: A Surprising Cut with Big Play Potential

The Dallas Cowboys' decision to waive Jaydon Blue, their 2025 fifth-round pick, raised eyebrows across the league. Blue, a dynamic speedster with excellent receiving skills out of the backfield, was expected to be the Cowboys' RB2 or at worst RB3 this season. The Bengals currently have Tahj Brooks as their third running back, but they might look to upgrade that spot or add a fourth back. Blue's ability to break big plays and contribute in the passing game could make him an ideal fit for Cincinnati's offense. As highlighted on Vulius, he's one of the biggest names to watch on the waiver wire.

OT Cameron Williams: A Young Tackle with Upside

Cameron Williams, a 2025 sixth-round pick for the Philadelphia Eagles, was waived and is just 22 years old. He's played almost exclusively at right tackle, but his talent could be molded by offensive line coach Scott Peters into a legitimate starter. The Bengals kept Jalen Rivers and Javon Foster on the initial roster after solid preseason performances, so claiming Williams would likely mean cutting one of them. However, if Cincinnati wants to invest in a young tackle with high upside, Williams could be worth the claim.

LB Red Murdock: Mr. Irrelevant with a Big Motor

Red Murdock, the 2026 NFL Draft's Mr. Irrelevant, was waived by the Denver Broncos despite many projections that he'd make their roster. Murdock is a tone-setter with physical play, having recorded nearly 300 tackles over the past two seasons and setting an NCAA record with 17 forced fumbles. The Bengals kept only four linebackers on their initial roster, so adding Murdock as a fifth could provide depth and special teams value. If Cincinnati liked him during the draft process, a waiver claim makes sense.

LB Tyrel Dodson: Experienced Veteran Option

Tyrel Dodson was productive for the Miami Dolphins in 2025, tallying 165 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 7 passes defended over 24 games. He was waived after Miami added rookie prospects like Jacob Rodriguez. If the Bengals want an experienced veteran who could be an upgrade over Oren Burks, Dodson is a strong candidate. His ability to play all three downs and contribute in coverage would add stability to Cincinnati's linebacker corps.

RB Jaleel McLaughlin: A Familiar Face with Explosive Ability

Jaleel McLaughlin, a 2023 undrafted free agent out of Youngstown State, was waived by the Broncos. In three seasons, he's rushed for 1,093 yards and three touchdowns on 226 carries (4.8 YPC) and caught 59 passes for 263 yards and four scores. McLaughlin's familiarity with the Bengals' coaching staff from his college days in Ohio could make him an attractive option. His explosiveness and receiving ability would give Cincinnati another weapon out of the backfield.

As the Bengals finalize their roster, these five players represent potential upgrades. Whether they claim one or more of them remains to be seen, but the front office's decisions in the coming days could shape the team's fortunes in 2026. Stay tuned to Vulius for the latest roster moves and analysis.