After not drafting a single linebacker in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Bengals claimed undrafted linebacker Eric Gentry to solidify the position. However, the three-year, $3.1M contract player doesn't fit the squad as per the early reports emerging from their rookie minicamp.

The Bengals wrapped up their two-day rookie minicamp at Paycor Stadium on May 8-9. According to observations from The Athletic’s Paul Dehner Jr., some early concerns also emerged surrounding Eric Gentry.

“It’s hard to make sense...," Dehner Jr. wrote. "He just looks out of place. He’s 6-7 and 221 pounds, built to play in the NBA, but instead lined up at middle linebacker,” he wrote.  “He can move differently than most of his size, but it’s hard to decipher if he has a chance to work in the NFL.”

With the average NFL linebacker standing around 6'2, Eric Gentry immediately stands out because of his unusual height.

“According to a TruMedia database search of all NFL defensive players, there is no record of a player with a height between 6-6 and 6-8 and a weight between 215 and 225 playing a single snap in the NFL this century,” he added.

Still, Eric Gentry arrives with an intriguing college record. Across four seasons at USC, the towering linebacker piled up eight sacks, 271 combined tackles, and 26.5 tackles for loss.

Ahead of the season, speculations are underway and it’s too early to make assumptions based on the minicamp. Still, some are excited about the traits he brings to the franchise.

Why the Bengals Went for an Intriguing Talent

Eric Gentry's eye-catching profile can make the difference for the Bengals.

Gentry entered the 2026 NFL Draft as a projected late-round prospect in most scouting reports. Some analysts viewed him as a priority undrafted free agent instead. Although he ultimately went undrafted, the Bengals quickly moved to bring in the former USC linebacker.

“Gentry arrives in Cincinnati with a fascinating blend of traits that will immediately catch the attention of coaches and fans alike," Anthony Cosenza wrote in a report. "...His length alone makes him disruptive in passing lanes, and when he’s decisive, he flashes the ability to close quickly on ball carriers."

It will now be interesting to watch how the new linebacker can help the Bengals turn the tables with his physical ability and college football experience before they enter the season.

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Written by

Evince Das

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote