Breaking News: Five Cincinnati Bengals Players Withdraw from Transfer Portal….

 

**Breaking News: Five Cincinnati Bengals Players Withdraw from Transfer Portal**

 

In a surprising turn of events, five players from the Cincinnati Bengals have decided to withdraw their names from the NCAA transfer portal, signaling their intent to remain with the team for the upcoming season. This development comes as the Bengals continue to navigate roster adjustments and prepare for the 2025 NFL season.

 

### The Players Involved

 

The five players who have retracted their transfer portal entries are:

 

1. **Aaron Casey** – A linebacker who joined the Bengals as an undrafted free agent following the 2024 NFL Draft. Casey spent six seasons at Indiana, leading the Big Ten in tackles for loss in 2023 and earning first-team All-Big Ten honors .

 

2. **Andre Carter** – A defensive end who initially signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent before being waived and joining the Bengals. Carter played one season at Indiana after transferring from Western Michigan, earning second-team All-MAC honors in 2022 .

 

3. **Garrison Butler** – A defensive tackle who redshirted as a freshman at Cincinnati. Butler announced his intention to enter the transfer portal in December 2024 .

 

4. **Kalen Carroll** – A cornerback who played 649 snaps over the past two seasons at Cincinnati. Carroll did not earn a PFF grade higher than 56.4 in either campaign .

 

5. **Justin Harris** – A cornerback who started most games at corner for Cincinnati before being replaced by redshirt freshman Kalen Carroll. Harris also entered the transfer portal .

 

### Reasons for Withdrawal

 

While the exact reasons for each player’s decision to withdraw from the transfer portal have not been publicly disclosed, several factors may have influenced their choices:

 

* **Coaching Staff Changes**: The Bengals have undergone coaching staff changes, which could have led to renewed opportunities for these players within the team.

 

* **Increased Playing Time**: With the departure of other players and potential openings in the roster, these individuals may see a clearer path to significant playing time.

 

* **Personal Considerations**: Personal reasons, including family considerations or a desire to remain in a familiar environment, may have played a role in their decisions.

 

### Impact on the Bengals

 

The return of these five players adds depth and experience to the Bengals’ roster as they prepare for the 2025 season. Their presence will provide valuable competition and depth in key positions, contributing to the team’s overall strength and flexibility.

 

As the Bengals continue their offseason preparations, the rejoining of these players underscores the dynamic nature of college football rosters and the evolving decisions that student-athletes face.