Bengals finally make move at LB, just not one fans expected

Cincinnati Bengals fans have a pretty straightforward wishlist at the linebacker position: Bobby Wagner or another notable free-agent name.

But after an unexpected Bengals roster move to end the week, those fans will have to wait.

Late in the week, the Bengals announced that they acquired linebacker Swayze Bozeman off waivers from the New York Giants. In a corresponding move, they also signed undrafted free-agent safety Isaiah Nwokobia.

Bozeman is a second-year defender who signed with Kansas City as a college free agent after the 2024 draft. He’s appeared in nine total games during his time with the Chiefs and Giants.

The lack of a move at linebacker before this for the Bengals was a big endorsement for Demetrius Knight and Barrett Carter. They’re all-in on the idea that additions like Dexter Lawrence will help their development.

Given the smaller nature of this move, it doesn’t necessarily rule out another signing in free agency between now and the summer. But the Bengals hitting the waiver wire to get Bozeman speaks to how much they liked him.

This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Bengals finally make move at LB, just not one fans expected