Will Bengals pick up Dax Hill’s fifth-year option?

The Cincinnati Bengals selected Dax Hill from the University of Michigan in the 2022 draft, with many believing he was meant to replace Jessie Bates III, who was on a franchise tag and not expected to stay with the team. When Bates eventually joined the Atlanta Falcons, Hill stepped into the free safety position. However, Hill faced difficulties with deep coverage throughout the season, despite showing promise closer to the line of scrimmage. These coverage issues likely influenced the Bengals’ decision to acquire Geno Stone from the Baltimore Ravens.

With Stone now slated to start at free safety and Vonn Bell competing with Jordan Battle for the strong safety position, Hill is currently training as a cornerback during the Bengals’ offseason program. Entering his third NFL season in 2024, the Bengals must decide whether to exercise Hill’s fifth-year option as a former first-round pick.

Matt Verderame from Sports Illustrated predicts that the Bengals will decline Hill’s option, making him an unrestricted free agent after the 2025 season. Verderame explained, “Hill was envisioned as a versatile piece for Cincinnati defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo when drafted from Michigan. Last year, he played nearly every defensive snap as a safety before being moved to corner with the signings of Geno Stone and Vonn Bell. If Hill excels in his new role, it might persuade the Bengals to retain him long-term.”

There is speculation that the Bengals might be preparing Hill to take over the slot corner position after Mike Hilton’s contract expires following this season. This scenario raises questions about Hill’s immediate role and future with the team. The upcoming season is crucial for Hill, and his performance could determine his tenure in Cincinnati well before his rookie contract concludes.

Hill’s adaptation and success in his new role as a cornerback could be pivotal. If he demonstrates significant improvement and reliability in this position, the Bengals might reconsider their stance on his fifth-year option. However, as of now, the prediction is that the Bengals will likely decline the option, leading to Hill becoming a free agent after the 2025 campaign. The team’s strategy and Hill’s performance this season will play a critical role in shaping his future with the Bengals.

In summary, Dax Hill’s struggles in coverage have led the Bengals to explore different roles for him, and his future with the team hinges on his performance in the upcoming season. Whether he secures a long-term spot with the Bengals or becomes a free agent will depend on his ability to adapt and excel in his new position.