The Bengals claimed Jordan Jefferson off waivers from the 49ers to bolster interior depth, reshaping a DT room that already features Slaton, Hill, Jenkins Jr. and Pennel. Cross III was waived to make room. Jefferson showed burst and upside as a rookie but must refine technique to maximize run disruption. With McKinnley Jackson pushing for snaps, Cincinnati is betting on a deeper, more flexible frontline for late-season battles.

Fantasy managers should watch how Jefferson earns his role: early down run defense and quick, disruptive bursts could unlock extra snaps in rotation. If he translates college upside to NFL consistency, Jefferson might push for meaningful group reps in a unit built to lean on youth and upside down the stretch.

Bengals promote Mike Pennel to the 53-man roster after Week 1, moving Lucas Patrick to IR. Cincinnati also added DE Myles Cole and DE Isaiah Foskey to the practice squad, while releasing DE Isaiah Thomas. Patrick will miss at least four games with an ankle sprain, elevating Pennel’s run-stopping role and testing the DL depth early.

Alongside the roster shuffles, the moves signal a prioritization of rotational DL talent and veteran presence on the interior. Foskey’s practice-squad signing hints at development depth for potential future activation, while Cole provides added edge rush options should injuries bite as Cincinnati navigates a grueling schedule.

Mike Pennel elevated from the Bengals’ practice squad ahead of Week 1 versus the Browns, a standard elevation that allows him to play and then revert after the game. Signed after leaving the Chiefs, Pennel is a veteran interior disruptor with playoff ambitions attached to Cincinnati. Expect multiple practice-squad elevations this season if he proves himself, with a possible late-season push for a 53-man role depending on his fit and health.

The move strengthens Cincinnati’s interior against Cleveland’s power rushing and adds depth to the D-line rotation. Fantasy managers should watch early snap counts and any additional elevations, as Pennel’s presence could widen the defense’s ceiling and create occasional IDP streaming value if he adapts quickly.