With the 2021 NFL Draft behind us and the next season still down the road, the Cincinnati Bengals made some additions to the roster after signing some Undrafted Free Agents (UDFA). The roster is essentially set, where the team will conduct position battles where necessary.
The NFL is essentially in the “tryouts” stage of the offseason, as late-round picks, journey-man veterans, and UDFA's will battle it out for a spot on an NFL roster. Anything can happen and we've seen some solid athletes beat the odds and make the final roster before.
The Bengals are still in their rebuilding phase, as most of the team is young and developing in the NFL. The offense looks good on paper, but the offensive line has to improve. Meanwhile, the defense has made some additions, but they also lost Mackensie Alexander, who was a great cornerback for the Bengals last year.
For that reason, there are plenty of opportunities available for the UDFA's Cincinnati brought in this offseason. The front office signed 7 total players after they went undrafted, giving Cincinnati plenty of talent to evaluate. Any of them could make the final roster, but there is one that stands out amongst the rest as a potential favorite to remain on the team. With that said, here is the 1 Undrafted Free Agent that will make the Bengals' 2021 roster.
Darius Hodge
Playing 3 years at Marshall, Darius Hodge signed with the Cincinnati Bengals after going undrafted. He didn't play much in his freshman year, however, Hodge played a vital role in the Thundering Herds' defense. In the final 2 years of his collegiate career, Hodge totaled 104 total tackles (17.5 for a loss), 13.5 sacks, and 1 forced fumble.
He played on the defensive line during his time at Marshall and will likely do the same for the Bengals. With his 6-2, 245-pound frame, Hodge is a bit undersized to play on the defensive line at the professional level. He's currently listed as an outside linebacker on ESPN's early depth chart for the Bengals.
Hodge is at his best when attacking the quarterback, which is something Cincinnati needs help with after failing to retain Carl Lawson this offseason. It's possible he makes the team and is utilized in special packages to blitz the quarterback. However, Hodge will likely start his career as a special teams player.
It's rare for a UDFA to come into an organization and make a real difference. Instead, Bengals fans should lower their expectations and view Hodge as a potential depth piece with room to grow. One thing that stands out in Hodge's favor of making the roster is the limited amount of depth the team has at the linebacker position. There is a lack of competition in the position, which bodes well for Hodge to possibly make the final roster.
Look for him to be third on the depth chart as an outside linebacker who could sub-in on the defensive line in certain packages. As previously mentioned, he'll likely be a special teams player, but he could have some opportunities to prove himself throughout the 2021 season.
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