Bengals Defensive End Cam Sample Faces Uncertain Offseason After Injury Comeback

The 27-year-old Sample is a free agent after playing a rotational role for the Bengals in 2026.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 6:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Cam Sample, a fourth-round draft pick by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2021, is set to become a free agent this offseason. Sample missed the entire 2024 season due to a torn Achilles but was re-signed by the Bengals in 2025 on a one-year deal. He played a reduced role in 2026, recording 2 sacks, and the Bengals may not prioritize re-signing him with other younger defensive ends on the roster.

Why it matters

The Bengals have several key defensive ends hitting free agency, including Trey Hendrickson and Joseph Ossai. While Sample has been a rotational piece, his uncertain future highlights the potential turnover the Bengals face on the defensive line this offseason.

The details

Sample was originally drafted by the Bengals in the fourth round in 2021 and immediately became a key rotational piece on the defensive line. He missed the 2024 season due to a torn Achilles but was re-signed by the team in 2025 on a one-year, $1.27 million deal. In 2026, Sample's snaps decreased to 234 after averaging 365 snaps per season in his first three years. He matched his career-high of 2 sacks. Spotrac estimates Sample's market value at a one-year, $1.96 million contract.

  • Sample was drafted by the Bengals in 2021.
  • He missed the entire 2024 season due to a torn Achilles.
  • The Bengals re-signed Sample in 2025 on a one-year, $1.27 million deal.
  • In 2026, Sample's snaps decreased to 234 after averaging 365 per season in his first three years.

The players

Cam Sample

A fourth-round draft pick by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2021, Sample has been a rotational defensive end for the team but is set to become a free agent after the 2026 season.

Trey Hendrickson

A key defensive end for the Bengals who is also set to become a free agent this offseason.

Joseph Ossai

Another Bengals defensive end who may command a decent contract as a free agent.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Bringing back Sample last year was a low-risk move to help fill out the defensive depth chart. His evaluation has not changed very much since entering the league, and he's always going to be more of a run-defending base end rather than a reliable answer as a pass rusher.”

— John Sheeran, Author

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.