Bengals securing DT Sheldon Rankins with 2-year, $26 million deal sparks outrage: “Tee Higgins and Dj are for sure gone”

Following a challenging season marred by vet players’ injuries, the Cincinnati Bengals are actively seeking to strengthen their roster to have a fresh start. Recently, the team made the decision to part ways with longtime player Joe Mixon, opting to bring in Zack Moss as his replacement.

In their latest roster addition, the Bengals secured Sheldon Rankins. Nevertheless, this move, akin to previous ones, has sparked significant criticism among fans and analysts.

Bengals agree to Sheldon Rankins’ new contract

The Cincinnati Bengals bolstered their defensive line by securing defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins with a lucrative two-year, $26 million deal, as reported by NFL insider Mike Garafolo. The move comes as the Bengals await DJ Reader’s decision on his future with the team.

Reports surfaced earlier in the week indicating the Bengals’ interest in Rankins, with plans to bring him in for a visit. Meanwhile, the Texans were also in contention to retain Rankins, according to sources.

The former first-round pick spent the first five seasons of his career with the New Orleans Saints before joining the Houston Texans on a one-year, $10.5 million contract in 2023. During his tenure with the Texans, the 29-year-old showcased his athleticism by recording six sacks, marking the second-highest single-season total in his career, as per Yahoo Sports.

Fans outraged with Bengals’ decision on Sheldon Rankins

Amid the excitement surrounding Sheldon Rankins’ signing with the Bengals, fans have expressed frustration over the team’s handling of other key players. With DJ Reader and Tee Higgins still unsigned, fans worry about the team’s future roster composition.

Joe Burrow emphasized Higgins’ importance to the team, adding to fans’ concerns about his potential departure. The lack of updates from the Bengals regarding these players has only fueled speculation and frustration among supporters.

Some fans believe Rankins’ signing signals the end for Higgins and Reader in Cincinnati. 

“Now Tee Higgins and DJ are for sure gone,” one fan commented.

Reports of Reader’s potentially visiting the Detroit Lions have also intensified fan frustration. Many feel the Bengals should prioritize re-signing Reader with the money allocated for Rankins. 

“Could’ve paid Reader that,” one comment read. 

Amid the discontent, some fans have labeled Rankins’ contract as a “Holy Overpay,” expressing dissatisfaction with the perceived allocation of resources by the Bengals management.

It will remain to be seen how the Bengals’ recent additions prove the team’s decision perfectly on the field.