The Bengals have signed LB Shaka Heyward off of the practice squad to the active roster.
Heyward first signed with the Bengals as an undrafted free agent in 2023, and has since spent most of his time on the team’s practice squad over the last couple of seasons. He is a player who brings size and athleticism to the table, offering some nice potential if he is able to keep his development on the upward trajectory.
To make room, WR Trenton Irwin was waived.
Irwin first joined the Bengals practice squad in 2019. He became a regular on the roster late in 2022, and had since been a main depth piece. During stretches when the team was dealing with injuries, he turned in some solid performances. That said, his ability to consistently create separation did become an issue when he saw more playing time, and it was especially an issue this season.
Though he isn’t a high ceiling guy, Irwin can be viewed as dependable for a back of the roster guy. If he clears waivers, the Bengals may try to sign him back to the practice squad.
