Cincinnati Bengals Secure WR Kendric Pryor on Reserve/Future Contract
The Cincinnati Bengals have made a strategic move to bolster their roster by signing wide receiver Kendric Pryor to a reserve/future contract. This signing reflects the team’s ongoing efforts to secure emerging talent and build depth as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.
What Is a Reserve/Future Contract?
A reserve/future contract is commonly used by NFL teams at the conclusion of the regular season. It allows organizations to retain players who were not on an active roster at the season’s end. These contracts officially take effect once the league year concludes after the Super Bowl. Signing reserve/future contracts enables teams to secure promising players for offseason workouts and training camps, giving them a chance to compete for a spot on the active roster.
Kendric Pryor’s Football Journey
Kendric Pryor, a native of Hazel Crest, Illinois, made a name for himself during his collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin. Playing from 2016 to 2021, Pryor consistently demonstrated his skills as a reliable receiver. He finished his college career with 99 receptions, totaling 1,265 yards and seven touchdowns.
Despite his impressive performance at Wisconsin, Pryor went undrafted in the 2022 NFL Draft. However, his talent did not go unnoticed, and he initially signed with the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent. After a promising preseason, Pryor was waived during the team’s final roster cuts but was quickly claimed off waivers by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
During his time in Jacksonville, Pryor alternated between the active roster and the practice squad but was eventually released. The Bengals later re-signed him to their practice squad in October 2023, providing him with a second opportunity to develop within the organization.
Bengals’ Confidence in Pryor’s Potential
By offering Pryor a reserve/future contract, the Bengals have demonstrated faith in his potential as a playmaker. This contract allows him to continue developing his skills within the team’s system while competing for a more permanent role on the active roster. Pryor’s speed, route-running ability, and versatility as a wide receiver make him a valuable asset, particularly for depth purposes and special teams contributions.
The Bengals’ coaching staff has shown a consistent interest in fostering young talent, and Pryor’s signing aligns with their strategy of developing players with long-term potential.
Additional Reserve/Future Signings
Alongside Pryor, the Bengals have also secured several other players on reserve/future deals. These include:
Micah Abraham, CB
Gary Brightwell, RB
Nate Brooks, CB
Cole Burgess, WR
Andrew Coker, OT
Raymond Johnson III, DE
PJ Jules, S
Jaylen Key, S
Tashawn Manning, G
Craig Young, LB
These signings emphasize the Bengals’ focus on maintaining depth across multiple positions, particularly in the secondary and wide receiver units.
Looking Ahead
The reserve/future contract provides Pryor and other signees with the opportunity to participate in offseason activities, including workouts and organized team activities (OTAs). It also gives them the chance to make an impression during training camp in hopes of earning a spot on the final 53-man roster for the 2025 season.
For the Bengals, this move reflects a proactive approach in building a competitive and well-rounded roster. Fans can expect to see Pryor working hard throughout the offseason as he aims to solidify his place on the team and contribute to Cincinnati’s success in the upcoming season.
