- Drew Sample
- #89
- Team CIN
- Pos TE
- Status AActive
-
Finishes with 15 catches in 2025
Sample caught 15 of 20 targets for 106 yards and one touchdown and added a three-yard run during the 2025 regular season.
Analysis: Sample played in all 17 regular-season games for a third consecutive campaign, all of which he finished with between 106 and 163 receiving yards. His three-year, $10.5 million contract with the Bengals runs through Sample's age-30 season in 2026.
Published: Mon, Jan 12 at 9:52am by Rotowire.com
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Cleared for Sunday
Sample (neck) was a full participant in Thursday's practice.
Analysis: Sample upgraded to full participation after being limited in Wednesday's session, and the tight end is free of injury designation for Sunday's game against the Dolphins. The No. 3 tight end has been occasionally productive relative to his depth position in the Bengals' offense this season, logging nine receptions for 50 yards and a touchdown on 14 targets. Sample's health stabilizes a tight-end room that might be without Noah Fant (ankle) for Sunday's contest.
Published: Thu, Dec 18 at 1:51pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited Wednesday
Sample (neck) was limited in Wednesday's practice, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: It's a new injury for Sample, who has appeared in all 14 games this season, including 11 starts. Sample doesn't do much other than block, as he's recorded just a 9-50-1 receiving line on 14 targets across 50 percent of the Bengals' offensive snaps.
Published: Wed, Dec 17 at 4:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Handles blocking role in Week 7
Sample didn't draw a target or run a route while playing 39 of the Bengals' 76 offensive snaps in Thursday's 33-31 win over the Steelers.
Analysis: Sample has always been deployed mainly as a blocker when he's taken the field, but the Bengals took that to an extreme in Week 7. Cincinnati didn't have Tanner Hudson (concussion) available as a depth option at tight end, which may have motivated the decision to scale back Sample's route running and use him exclusively as a blocker behind starter Noah Fant, who moved atop the depth chart due to Mike Gesicki (pectoral) hitting injured reserve.
Published: Sat, Oct 18 at 9:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Plays 20 snaps in loss
Sample recorded one reception for minus-2 yards on two targets in Sunday's 27-18 loss to the Packers.
Analysis: Sample was on the field for 20 of the Bengals' 61 offensive snaps in the loss and could be in line for more playing time Thursday against the Steelers, as Cincinnati is likely to be without fellow tight ends Mike Gesicki (pectoral) and Tanner Hudson (concussion) for the game. The Bengals have used Sample primarily as a blocker this season, so any uptick in playing time he might receive in Week 7 is unlikely to translate into bankable fantasy production.
Published: Mon, Oct 13 at 6:59pm by Rotowire.com
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Cleared to play Week 6
Sample (ankle) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Packers, Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports.
Analysis: Sample upgraded his practice participation throughout the week to gain clearance, as he went from a non-participant Wednesday to a limited participant Thursday before practicing without limitations Friday. Sample's impact in the passing game will likely remain limited, as Mike Gesicki and Noah Fant are ahead of him on the depth chart.
Published: Fri, Oct 10 at 12:00pm by Rotowire.com
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Upgrades to limited practice
Sample (ankle) was limited in practice Thursday, Rob Demovsky of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Sample missed practice Wednesday, so his ability to handle limited reps bodes well for the depth tight end's chances of being cleared to suit up on the road against Green Bay on Sunday. Cincinnati's move to trade for a new starting quarterback in the form of veteran Joe Flacco could provide a spark for this passing game, but both Mike Gesicki and Noah Fant rank ahead of Sample on the depth chart, especially as pass-catching options. If Sample can upgrade to full practice reps Friday, he'll…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 9 at 1:44pm by Rotowire.com
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Working through ankle injury
Sample did not participate in Wednesday's practice due to an ankle injury, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Sample played 41 snaps (27 on offense, 14 on special teams) and logged one catch for minus-one yard during the Bengals' 37-24 loss to the Lions in Week 5. He has come out of that contest worse for wear with an ankle injury, and he'll have two more opportunities to return to practice and avoid an injury designation heading into Sunday's contest against the Packers at Lambeau Field. Tanner Hudson and Cam Grandy would be in line to step up as the TE3 behind Mike Gesicki and Noah Fant if Sample is…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 8 at 2:48pm by Rotowire.com
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Not targeted against Denver
Sample failed to record a single target in Monday's 28-3 loss to the Broncos.
Analysis: Despite fellow tight end Noah Fant (concussion) missing Monday's contest against the Broncos, Sample actually saw a decrease in playing time from Week 3. The veteran tight end played 22 of the Bengals' 48 offensive snaps, behind Mike Gesicki (27) and ahead of both Cam Grandy (4) and Tanner Hudson (1). Through four games, Sample has recorded just three receptions for 27 yards and a touchdown. Based on his limited usage, the 29-year-old remains far off the fantasy radar heading into a Week 5…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 1 at 8:10am by Rotowire.com
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All set for Week 1
Sample (undisclosed) did not appear on the Bengals' injury report Wednesday, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Sample suffered an undisclosed injury during the preseason, but he now appears to be back to full health. The tight end will operate as a depth option behind Mike Gesicki and Noah Fant in Sunday's regular-season opener against the Browns.
Published: Wed, Sep 3 at 4:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Dealing with minor injury
Sample is considered day-to-day with an unspecified injury, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Sample presumably was injured during Monday's preseason win over Washington. He got some first-team snaps in the game, rotating with Noah Fant and Tanner Hudson at tight end, while Mike Gesicki (hamstring) was unavailable. With Gesicki said to be nearing a return, there's not much room for the other tight ends to see enough targets for fantasy relevance. Fant and Hudson offer more pass-catching potential than Sample, in any case, considering the seventh-year Bengal has 100 catches and just four…read more
Published: Wed, Aug 20 at 11:32am by Rotowire.com
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Four receptions in finale
Sample tied a season-high with four catches in Saturday's Week 18 win over the Steelers, netting just 14 yards. For the season Sample caught 20 passes for 109 yards and a touchdown across 17 games.
Analysis: Sample has been a blocking-first tight end for most of his career, dating back to his college days at the University of Washington. This season falls sharply in line with his career production.
Published: Thu, Jan 9 at 10:47am by Rotowire.com
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Good to go against Pittsburgh
Sample (groin) is active for Saturday's game against the Steelers.
Analysis: Sample was expected to play in Saturday's regular-season finale despite missing practice all week due to a groin injury. Sample will serve as the Bengals' No. 2 tight end behind Mike Gesicki.
Published: Sat, Jan 4 at 3:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Expected to play against Steelers
Sample (groin) is listed as questionable for Saturday night's game against Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Head coach Zac Taylor relayed Thursday that Sample is expected to play despite missing practice all week due to a groin injury, per Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic. In the five games since the Bengals' Week 12 bye, Sample has caught seven passes on as many targets for 44 yards while serving as the No. 2 tight end behind Mike Gesicki. Tanner Hudson would see an increased snap count on offense if Sample was limited in his playing time or ruled out entirely.
Published: Thu, Jan 2 at 2:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Managing groin injury
Sample was deemed a non-participant in Tuesday's practice walkthrough due to a groin issue, Jay Morrison of SI.com reports.
Analysis: This is the first word of the tight end dealing with a groin issue, and it's currently unclear how severe the injury is. Sample handled about his usual workload this past Saturday against Denver, logging 51 offensive snaps and recording one catch on one target for three yards. Sample isn't typically a big part of the Bengals' air attack, but his effective blocking would be missed if he can't suit up Saturday versus Pittsburgh.
Published: Tue, Dec 31 at 2:17pm by Rotowire.com
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Leads position group in snaps Monday
Sample was on the field for 49 of the Bengals' 71 snaps on offense and recorded two receptions for 13 yards on two targets in Monday's 27-20 win over the Cowboys.
Analysis: Sample comfortably paced Bengals tight ends in playing time, logging more snaps than Mike Gesicki (20), Cam Grandy (17) and Tanner Hudson (14). While it's not out of the ordinary for Sample to lead the group in snaps, he functions primarily as a blocker when he's on the field and typically isn't as involved in the passing game compared to Gesicki and Hudson, both of whom have logged more targets, receptions and receiving yards on the season.
Published: Wed, Dec 11 at 9:10am by Rotowire.com
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Two catches in Week 13 loss
Sample recorded two receptions for eight yards on two targets in Sunday's 44-38 loss to the Steelers.
Analysis: Sample's 39 snaps paced all Cincinnati tight ends, ranking ahead of Mike Gesicki (27), Tanner Hudson (12) and Cam Grandy (nine). Though he's now played more than half of Cincinnati's offensive snaps in each of the last four games, Sample brings most of his value as a blocker and isn't as involved in the passing game as Gesicki and Hudson. Sample has still managed to produce a 7-31-1 receiving line on eight targets over that four-game stretch, exceeding his combined output from the first eight…read more
Published: Thu, Dec 5 at 6:39am by Rotowire.com
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No targets in Week 10
Sample did not see any targets in Thursday's loss to the Ravens.
Analysis: Sample had his best game of the season with four catches and a touchdown in Week 9 against Las Vegas, but he was back to being a non-factor Thursday. Meanwhile, Bengals No. 1 tight end Mike Gesicki caught four passes (on nine targets) for 30 yards against Baltimore, and Tanner Hudson notched six catches (on seven targets) for 42 yards and a touchdown. Sample did finish second among the team's tight ends with 46 offensive snaps, but with zero receptions in seven of his 10 contests this season,…read more
Published: Fri, Nov 8 at 5:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Catches touchdown in win
Sample hauled in all four of his targets for 14 yards and a touchdown during the Bengals' 41-24 win over the Raiders.
Analysis: Sample was one of four different Cincinnati receivers to haul in a touchdown pass from Joe Burrow during Sunday's blowout win. He's now caught eight of his nine targets for 42 yards and a touchdown across nine games this season.
Published: Tue, Nov 5 at 6:50pm by Rotowire.com
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Goes without target Week 6
Sample didn't draw a target while playing 26 of the Bengals' 53 snaps on offense in Sunday's 17-7 win over the Giants.
Analysis: Though Sample paced the Bengals four active tight ends in snaps, rookie Erick All was the only member of the quartet that drew a target on the evening. Sample has handled snap shares north of 40 percent in each of Cincinnati's first four contests, but he's on the field primarily for his prowess as a blocker. He's been targeted just four times across his 169 offensive snaps on the season.
Published: Mon, Oct 14 at 9:45am by Rotowire.com
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Three grabs in Week 2
Sample secured all three of his targets for 28 yards in Sunday's 26-25 loss to the Chiefs.
Analysis: Sample played 33 of the Bengals' 64 offensive snaps, splitting time with fellow tight ends Mike Gesicki and Erick All. The veteran's minimal production is to be expected with Gesicki operating as the clear top option at tight end while seeing a team-high nine targets in the contest. Going forward, Sample should not be trusted for fantasy purposes. The Bengals will host the Commanders in Week 3.
Published: Tue, Sep 17 at 9:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Not targeted in loss
Sample failed to record a single target in Sunday's 16-10 loss to the Patriots.
Analysis: Despite not seeing a target Sunday, Sample played the most offensive snaps (27) of any Cincinnati tight end. The Bengals found it hard to move the ball against a formidable New England defense, and the veteran tight end wasn't a factor in the passing game. Teammate Mike Gesicki was the preferred target at tight end for Joe Burrow, seeing four targets in the contest. Sample will likely continue to see an uphill battle for targets when the Bengals square off against the Chiefs in Week 2.
Published: Wed, Sep 11 at 6:41am by Rotowire.com
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Lands three-year extension
Sample has signed a three-year contract extension with the Bengals.
Analysis: Per Ben Baby of ESPN.com, the deal is worth $10.5 million. Sample is coming off a 2023 campaign in which he recorded 22 catches for 163 yards and two touchdowns in 17 regular-season games. While the 2019 second-rounder is back in the fold, Sample's potential workload and in turn fantasy upside in 2024 hinges on what other moves the Bengals make at the tight end position in free agency and the draft.
Published: Mon, Mar 11 at 10:14am by Rotowire.com
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Plays in all 17 games
Sample played in all 17 games for the Bengals in 2023, recording 22 catches for 163 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: The tight end finished the season second on the depth chart behind Tanner Hudson. Sample will become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Cincinnati does not yet have any tight ends under contract for 2024.
Published: Thu, Feb 8 at 5:40pm by Rotowire.com
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Four targets in loss
Sample caught three of four targets for 21 yards in Sunday's 25-17 loss to the Chiefs.
Analysis: Sample saw his highest snap share of the season Sunday, playing 72 percent of the Bengals' offensive snaps. The veteran tight end caught three passes for the second-straight week, but he continued his string of modest production this season. In 16 games, Sample has recorded just 20 receptions for 156 and two touchdowns. The 27-year-old will look to stay involved and finish the season on a high note when the Bengals host the Browns in Week 18.
Published: Wed, Jan 3 at 6:37am by Rotowire.com
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Three catches against Steelers
Sample caught all three of his targets for 38 yards in Saturday's 34-11 loss to the Steelers.
Analysis: Sample's three receptions tied a season-high for the veteran, while his 38 yards were the most he's gained in a single contest in 2023. The 27-year-old played 55 percent of the Bengals' offensive snaps, ahead of both Tanner Hudson (50) and Mitchell Wilcox (23). Despite his increased involvement against the Steelers, Sample should remain far off the fantasy radar heading into a Week 17 matchup against the Chiefs.
Published: Wed, Dec 27 at 4:52am by Rotowire.com
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Blocking role
Sample was targeted once on 40 offensive snaps in Saturday's overtime win over the Vikings.
Analysis: Frequently Sample lined up in the backfield to help pick up the numerous blitzes from the Vikings' Brian Flores-designed defense. He hasn't had more than two targets in a game since Week 10.
Published: Tue, Dec 19 at 2:10pm by Rotowire.com
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Set to face Vikings
Sample (illness) is listed as active for Saturday's game against the Vikings.
Analysis: Sample was a late addition to the Bengals' Week 15 injury report, but he'll give it a go Saturday and will continue to log tight end reps along with Tanner Hudson, Mitchell Wilcox and Irv Smith. In 13 games this season, Sample has logged a 14/97/2 receiving line on 17 targets, a pace that limits his fantasy utility to deep formats.
Published: Sat, Dec 16 at 8:42am by Rotowire.com
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Added to injury report
The Bengals added Sample (illness) to the injury report Friday, listing him as questionable for Saturday's game against the Vikings, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.
Analysis: If Sample were to miss Saturday's game, the Bengals' four-man weave at tight end would be reduced to three, featuring Tanner Hudson, Mitchell Wilcox and Irv Smith. Sample paced the group in playing time last week against the Colts, seeing action on 19 snaps.
Published: Fri, Dec 15 at 11:12am by Rotowire.com
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Finds end zone against Steelers
Sample caught his lone target for an 11 yard touchdown in Sunday's 16-10 loss to the Steelers.
Analysis: Sample played the most snaps (19) at tight end for the Bengals, ahead of Irv Smith (16), Tanner Hudson (13) and Mitchell Wilcox (12). The veteran's touchdown was just his second of the season, while his usage in the passing attack has been minimal throughout 2023. As part of a crowded tight end room splitting playing time, Sample is not a trustworthy fantasy option for consistent production. The Bengals are set to face off against the Jaguars in Week 13.
Published: Wed, Nov 29 at 2:09am by Rotowire.com
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Decreasing snap share
Sample had two catches for 19 yards while playing only 17 offensive snaps in Thursday's loss to the Ravens.
Analysis: Tanner Hudson's emergence has taken snaps away from both Sample and Irv Smith, and the 17 snaps on Thursday were Sample's lowest since Week 4.
Published: Mon, Nov 20 at 9:34am by Rotowire.com
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Minimal production in loss
Sample caught two of his three targets for 12 yards in Sunday's 30-27 loss to the Texans.
Analysis: Sample played 23 of the Bengals' 64 offensive snaps Sunday, just ahead of Irv Smith (21) and Tanner Hudson (20). The near-even split in snaps amongst Cincinnati's tight ends will likely continue to limit Sample's potential for consistent production going forward. Sample is extremely difficult to trust for fantasy purposes heading into a Week 11 matchup with the Ravens on Thursday.
Published: Wed, Nov 15 at 6:05am by Rotowire.com
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Target volume increasing
Sample caught three passes for 30 yards and his first touchdown of the year against the Bills on Sunday night. He was targeted a season-high four times.
Analysis: All three Bengals tight ends -- Sample, Irv Smith and Tanner Hudson -- were targeted more than usual against the Bills. Prior to Sunday night, most of Sample's snaps required him to stay in and block, a tendency that the Bengals exploited on a clever play for his touchdown. The fifth-year TE could see an expanded pass-catching role again in Week 10 against a Texans defense that just gave up two TDs to the Bucs' Cade Otton.
Published: Tue, Nov 7 at 12:35pm by Rotowire.com
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Minimal involvement in loss
Sample secured his only target for minus-one yard in Sunday's 27-3 loss to the Titans.
Analysis: Sample was a nonfactor Sunday, seeing just one target for the second straight week. The veteran's 17 offensive snaps were the third-most among tight ends, with both Tanner Hudson and Mitchell Wilcox handling more snaps in the contest. Top tight end Irv Smith was ruled out for Week 4 with a hamstring injury, but Sample remained an afterthought in the Bengals' struggling offense. The 27-year-old should be left out of fantasy lineups going into a Week 5 matchup with the Cardinals.
Published: Wed, Oct 4 at 2:50am by Rotowire.com
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No targets through two weeks
Sample went without a target across 13 snaps on offense Sunday in the Bengals' 27-24 loss to the Ravens.
Analysis: Sample has now logged 31 snaps on offense through the first two weeks of the season but has yet to draw a look in the passing game from quarterback Joe Burrow. So long as Irv Smith stays healthy, he'll be entrenched as Cincinnati's top tight end and will continue to dominate the snaps and targets among the position group.
Published: Wed, Sep 20 at 10:29am by Rotowire.com
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Staying in Cincinnati
Sample re-signed a with the Bengals on a one-year deal Friday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Sample has spent the entirety of his four-year career in Cincinnati and will now be tied to the Bengals next season as well. The 26-year-old appeared in just two games last season before injuring both his MCL and PCL and logged two catches for minus-2 yards. Heading into next season, Sample will look to compete for playing time behind presumptive starter Irv Smith.
Published: Fri, Apr 14 at 12:44pm by Rotowire.com
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Tries out with Arizona
The Cardinals brought in Sample (knee) for a workout Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Sample appeared in just two games with the Bengals last year before he sustained a season-ending MCL and PCL injury in his right knee in mid-September. The 27-year-old tight end underwent surgery to address the damage in his knee shortly thereafter before reaching free agency this offseason. Sample's ability to complete a workout signals that he's healthy again, and he could land with Arizona or another team as a depth option before training camps open in late July. Sample never made a…read more
Published: Wed, Apr 12 at 7:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Ends season on IR
Sample recorded two catches for minus-2 yards over two appearances before missing the rest of the regular season and postseason while recovering from surgery to address MCL and PCL damage to his right knee.
Analysis: A second-round pick in 2019, Sample never developed into a major receiving option over the four years of his rookie deal. Though Sample could be at or near full health by the spring, the impending free agent isn't a lock to be retained by Cincinnati.
Published: Wed, Feb 1 at 12:38pm by Rotowire.com
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Placed on IR
Sample (knee) was placed on injured reserve Monday, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: As expected, Sample will likely miss the remainder of the season after suffering damage to his MCL and PCL in his right knee Sept. 18 versus the Cowboys. The 26-year-old has a chance to return in early December, though that seems unlikely. Mitchell Wilcox will replace Sample as the top reserve option behind Hayden Hurst at tight end for the time being.
Published: Mon, Oct 3 at 7:34am by Rotowire.com
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Headed to IR
Head coach Zac Taylor said the Bengals will place Sample (knee) on injured reserve in the next couple of days, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Sample underwent surgery on his right knee following the team's Week 2 loss to the Cowboys. His return timetable is unclear, but it's possible he'll miss the entire campaign after initial tests revealed damage to his MCL and PCL, per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com. In Sample's absence, Mitchell Wilcox has stepped up as the Bengals' top backup tight end behind Hayden Hurst.
Published: Fri, Sep 30 at 9:00am by Rotowire.com
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Could be out for season
Sample will likely be forced to miss the remainder of the 2022 season due to MCL and PCL damage in his right knee, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Bengals coach Zac Taylor said Tuesday that Sample is set to undergo surgery following a right knee injury suffered during Sunday's loss to the Cowboys. While the tight end was initially expected to be sidelined for at least a few months, it now appears that he will sit out the rest of the year after initial tests revealed damage to his MCL and PCL, according to Fowler. Sample recorded 11 catches for 81 yards while playing 440 offensive snaps last season, and he will now look to work his way…read more
Published: Wed, Sep 21 at 6:35pm by Rotowire.com
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Out for months following surgery
Coach Zac Taylor said Tuesday that Sample (knee) will have surgery soon and will be out a few months, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.
Analysis: Sample suffered the right knee injury during Sunday's Week 2 matchup against the Cowboys. He'll likely head to IR, leaving the Bengals with only two healthy tight ends -- Hayden Hurst and Mitchell Wilcox. Devin Asiasi (quadriceps) has yet to suit up this year, and it's unclear when he'll make his season debut.
Published: Wed, Sep 21 at 10:15am by Rotowire.com
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Won't return Sunday
Sample has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Cowboys due to a right knee injury.
Analysis: Sample hauled in his lone target for minus-4 yards to begin Sunday's matchup, but he sustained a knee injury in the second quarter and was unable to return. It's not yet clear whether he'll be available for the Bengals' Week 3 matchup against the Jets next Sunday.
Published: Sun, Sep 18 at 2:52pm by Rotowire.com
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Full participant Wednesday
Sample (ankle) was a full participant during Wednesday's practice.
Analysis: Sample had to be carted off the field after suffering a knee injury at the beginning of August, but the details of the issue were never released. The 2019 second-round pick missed the entire preseason, but he appears to be full go ahead of Week 1. If available Sunday, Sample is projected to be the primary backup behind newcomer Hayden Hurst to start the 2022 campaign.
Published: Wed, Sep 7 at 1:59pm by Rotowire.com
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Returns to practice Wednesday
Sample (knee) returned to practice Wednesday, Paul Dehner and Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Sample had to be carted off the practice field after suffering a knee injury at the beginning of August, but the details of the issue were never released. He was spotted with a brace and crutches later in the week, and Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said he'd be sidelined for a couple of weeks. The 2019 second-round pick sat out the entire preseason, but he appears to be ramping up after garnering pads for the first time since the initial injury. If healthy, Sample is expected to be the primary…read more
Published: Fri, Sep 2 at 11:36am by Rotowire.com
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Wearing brace after knee injury
Sample sported a brace on his leg and was walking with a crutch Friday after being carted off the field due to a knee injury in Thursday's practice, Kelsey Conway of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. Ben Baby of ESPN adds that coach Zac Taylor expects Sample to miss a couple weeks as a result of the injury.
Analysis: Sample's left leg injury has been specified as a knee injury. Taylor's prognosis rules Sample out for the Aug. 12 preseason opener, but it's possible Sample could be healthy enough to play in the second preseason game against the Giants on Aug. 21.
Published: Fri, Aug 5 at 9:52am by Rotowire.com
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Departs practice early
Sample was carted off the Bengals' practice field Thursday after having his left leg evaluated by the team's training staff, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.
Analysis: It's unclear what was ailing Sample's left leg, but it was apparently significant enough for him to leave practice early. The 26-year-old tight end was relegated to a relatively minor receiving role while playing behind starter C.J. Uzomah for Cincinnati last year, totaling just 11 catches for 81 yards on 15 targets. Sample figures to once again serve as the team's No. 2 tight end behind Hayden Hurst, who joined the Bengals on a one-year deal in March.
Published: Thu, Aug 4 at 1:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Offensive role dries up
Sample secured 11 of 15 targets for 81 yards across 17 appearances in 2021.
Analysis: Sample was targeted 53 times across 16 regular-season appearances in 2020, but the third year of his NFL career has seen him take a clear back seat to C.J. Uzomah. The 2019 second-round pick has one more year on his rookie deal with Cincinnati, but his opportunities on offense could be slim again in the 2022 campaign.
Published: Mon, Jan 17 at 9:34am by Rotowire.com
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Good to go Sunday
Sample (foot) does not have an injury designation heading into Sunday's game against Baltimore, per Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic.
Analysis: Sample did not practice Wednesday and was a limited participant Thursday, but he was able to return to a full session Friday. He'll take on his usual role as the Bengals' No. 2 tight end behind C.J. Uzomah on Sunday.
Published: Fri, Dec 24 at 12:22pm by Rotowire.com
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Doesn't participate in practice
Sample didn't participate in Wednesday's practice session due to a foot injury, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Sample secured his lone target for two yards in Sunday's win over Denver, and he apparently sustained a foot injury in the contest. It's not yet clear whether the injury will prevent him from suiting up Sunday against the Ravens.
Published: Wed, Dec 22 at 1:21pm by Rotowire.com
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Catches only target in loss
Sample caught his only target for 14 yards during Sunday's 26-23 overtime loss to the 49ers.
Analysis: Sample was on the field for 18 of the Bengals' 67 offensive snaps, while starting tight end C.J. Uzomah played 58 snaps. The 25-year-old has just seven catches on the season and typically serves as a blocker when he is on the field. Sample offers little fantasy value as a No. 2 tight end on a team with numerous pass-catching options.
Published: Tue, Dec 14 at 1:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Not targeted in loss
Sample failed to draw a single target in Sunday's 41-22 loss to the Chargers.
Analysis: Sample was on the field for 26 of the Bengals' 76 offensive snaps in the contest, while starting tight end C.J. Uzomah played 66 snaps. Sample offers little fantasy value as a No. 2 tight end, as the 25-year-old typically serves as the blocker on the rare occasions he's on the field.
Published: Wed, Dec 8 at 7:13am by Rotowire.com
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Not targeted in win
Sample failed to draw a target in Sunday's 41-10 win over the Steelers.
Analysis: Sample played 39 of the Bengals' 68 offensive snaps, just six fewer than starting tight end C.J. Uzomah. The 25-year-old usually isn't a big part of the Cincinnati passing attack even in competitive contests or in games when the Bengals are in catchup mode, but Sample's involvement was even more muted than normal with quarterback Joe Burrow attempting just 24 passes -- his second-fewest of the season -- in the blowout win. Instead, Joe Mixon and the running game was the focal point of the…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 1 at 2:56am by Rotowire.com
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Most productive outing of season
Sample logged three receptions for 36 yards on three targets Sunday in the Bengals' 41-16 loss to the Browns.
Analysis: After falling behind by two touchdowns at halftime and by 24 points after three quarters, the Bengals were forced to abandon the run. As a result, Sample and fellow tight end C.J. Uzomah (five targets) had fewer blocking responsibilities and were more involved as route runners than usual. The four targets were a season-high total for Sample, who hadn't drawn a look in the passing game in either of the Bengals' prior two contests.
Published: Wed, Nov 10 at 7:53am by Rotowire.com
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Catches two passes
Sample secured two of four targets for nine yards in Sunday's 25-22 loss to the Packers.
Analysis: Sample saw his first targets of the season Week 5, after going without a look on any of his 103 offensive snaps through the first four games. The 25-year-old logged 21 of the 67 offensive snaps Sunday, ranking a distant second at the position behind No. 1 tight end C.J. Uzomah (56). Sample is irrelevant for fantasy purposes, but an injury to Uzomah would clear a path to more opportunities within the offense.
Published: Wed, Oct 13 at 3:06am by Rotowire.com
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Behind Uzomah on depth chart
Sample enters the season behind C.J. Uzomah on the Bengals' initial depth chart.
Analysis: Last season in the only game in which Uzomah was healthy, Sample saw action on 24 offensive snaps and received just one target. The Bengals run with an "11" formation as much as anyone in the NFL, so it's possible that Sample's workload will mirror what happened in Week 1 last season more than the workload he received after Uzomah got hurt.
Published: Sun, Sep 12 at 5:30am by Rotowire.com
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Shows improvement in second year
Sample finished the 2020 season with 40 catches for 349 yards and his first NFL touchdown.
Analysis: While Sample won't be drawing comparisons to Travis Kelce anytime soon, the 2019 second-round pick from the University of Washington did make important strides, taking advantage of the playing time resulting from C.J. Uzomah's season-ending injury.
Published: Wed, Jan 13 at 11:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Notches first career TD
Sample caught an eight-yard touchdown pass in Sunday's 37-31 win over the Texans.
Analysis: The 2019 second-round pick has produced some notable games this season with C.J. Uzomah (Achilles) out of the picture, but this was his first trip to the end zone. Sample has now produced a 38-334-1 line on 50 targets this season.
Published: Mon, Dec 28 at 12:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Three catches in losing effort
Sample had three catches for 21 yards on four targets in Sunday's loss to the Cowboys.
Analysis: Sample's activity has picked up the last four weeks, as he's had four or more targets each of those games, but that hasn't translated into that much production. He still doesn't have a touchdown this season, and his highest yardage total in a game has been 52 yards.
Published: Mon, Dec 14 at 8:57pm by Rotowire.com
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Elevated role in loss
Sample secured all seven targets for 49 yards in the Bengals' 19-7 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday.
Analysis: Sample surprisingly tied Tee Higgins for the team lead in targets while setting the pace in receptions, with slot receiver Tyler Boyd's first-half ejection likely playing a pivotal part in the tight end's elevated role. Sample has had numerous solid efforts during his second season, but Sunday's catch tally tied a career high, while his target total checked in as his second highest of the season. His production is likely to continue fluctuating week to week, but he could enjoy relatively robust…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 6 at 2:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Giving away free Samples
Sample caught four passes for 40 yards on five targets, but also coughed up a critical fumble in Sunday's loss to the Giants.
Analysis: The fumble came in the fourth quarter deep in Bengals territory and ultimately led to the Giants' final field goal, one that would provide their margin of victory in the 19-17 game. The target and catch volume were Sample's highest since Week 7 however, and suggest he'll remain a bigger option in the passing game with Brandon Allen under center instead of Joe Burrow (knee).
Published: Mon, Nov 30 at 10:55pm by Rotowire.com
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Another small Sample
Sample had two catches for 29 yards on four targets in Sunday's loss to the Football Team.
Analysis: Sample remains without an NFL touchdown through the first 19 games of his career. He didn't add much in the blocking aspect of the game either - he was the lowest rated offensive regular using Pro Football Focus's ratings, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.
Published: Mon, Nov 23 at 10:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Minimal activity
Sample had just one catch on two targets for nine yards in Sunday's loss to the Steelers.
Analysis: That's two consecutive games where Sample has been nearly invisible on offense, despite playing 57 snaps. Sample has yet to score this season, and outside of two games against Cleveland, he has had eight catches in the remaining seven Bengals games this year.
Published: Mon, Nov 16 at 6:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Plays nearly every snap
Sample had five catches for 52 yards on six targets in Sunday's loss to the Browns, playing 73 offensive snaps, good for a 97 percent snap share.
Analysis: Sample is getting a good workload with C.J. Uzomah (Achilles) done for the year, but he hasn't yet scored this season despite eight red-zone targets, including three inside the 10 yard-line. Sample's not going to be a top-five tight end any time soon, but he's pretty close to breaking his season projection only halfway through the campaign.
Published: Tue, Oct 27 at 12:11am by Rotowire.com
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First catchless game of 2020
Sample didn't catch his lone target in Sunday's 31-27 loss to the Colts.
Analysis: Sample has largely underwhelmed since C.J. Uzomah (Achilles) was ruled out for the season, as he's posted a 6-70-0 line while getting targeted just nine times over the last four games. He's getting plenty of playing time, recording at least a 75 percent snap share in each contest. The 2019 second-round pick's not dependable in redraft fantasy leagues, but he'll be a valuable DFS option if he happens to fall into the end zone.
Published: Tue, Oct 20 at 12:27pm by Rotowire.com
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Only two targets
Sample caught both of his targets Sunday against the Ravens, netting 22 yards.
Analysis: The Bengals next face the Colts, who allowed 10 targets and five catches to Austin Hooper in Week 5, so Sample might have a bigger role Week 6.
Published: Mon, Oct 12 at 8:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Very active day
Sample had three catches for 47 yards on five targets in the Bengals' win over Jacksonville on Sunday. He also was the targeted receiver on Joe Burrow's lone interception, a play in the end zone where Jaguars linebacker Myles Jack outfought Sample for the ball after it initially ricocheted off of Sample's facemask.
Analysis: Sample was on the field for 64 offensive plays (85 percent), more than any of the other Bengals running backs, wide receivers or fellow tight end Cethan Carter. Despite the end-zone miscue, he's becoming more than just a blocking or check-down tight end for Burrow.
Published: Mon, Oct 5 at 1:17pm by Rotowire.com
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Permanent role
With C.J. Uzomah out for the season, Sample is in line for a permanent role at tight end with the Bengals, sharing the snaps with Cethan Carter and Mason Schreck.
Analysis: It was a bit of a surprise that the Bengals took Sample in the second round last season, especially as he had little in the way of receiving history at the University of Washington. Now with Uzomah out, Sample has been thrust into a prominent role as a check-down option for Joe Burrow beginning with a matchup against the Eagles, which just gave up three touchdowns to the Rams' Tyler Higbee last week.
Published: Mon, Sep 21 at 3:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Co-team-high catch total in loss
Sample secured seven of 10 targets for 45 yards in the Bengals' 35-30 loss to the Browns on Thursday.
Analysis: The 2019 second-round pick's role in the passing game quickly become more prominent upon C.J. Uzomah's Achilles injury in the fourth quarter. Sample caught several short passes down the stretch as Joe Burrow checked down underneath against the Browns' nickel and dime defenses, and he was able to make good uses of his opportunities overall. The University of Washington product saw his rookie season cut short due to a Week 10 ankle injury, but if Uzomah's injury is deemed to be a long-term one,…read more
Published: Thu, Sep 17 at 9:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Clean bill of health
Sample (ankle) is healthy and ready to go for 2020, James Rapien of Sports Illustrated reports.
Analysis: Sample's rookie season with the Bengals was cut short after he suffered a high-ankle sprain in Week 10, but prior to that he had accrued just 30 yards on five receptions. The 24-year-old was selected by Cincinnati in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Despite playing a limited role on offense last season, Tyler Eifert's departure for Jacksonville could open up an expanded role in 2020. Sample will presumably compete with C.J. Uzomah for playing time and targets.
Published: Tue, Jun 23 at 5:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Ticketed for expanded role
The Bengals expect Sample (ankle) to handle a larger role in 2020, Paul Dehner of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: The 2019 second-round pick operated as the Bengals' No. 3 tight end during his rookie season, recording five catches on 108 offensive snaps in nine games before a high-ankle sprain sent him to injured reserve. He'll now have a chance to take on some of the work that previously went to Tyler Eifert, who saw 63 targets last season before signing with the Jaguars in March. C.J. Uzomah is also a candidate to handle some of those snaps and targets, and he'll likely line up as the No. 1 tight end…read more
Published: Wed, Apr 8 at 7:00am by Rotowire.com
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Lands on IR
Sample (ankle) was placed on injured reserve by the Bengals on Saturday, Tyler Dragon of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.
Analysis: Sample suffered a high-ankle sprain Nov. 11 in a matchup with the Ravens. The severity of the injury will keep him out for the remainder of the year. Drafted in the second round, the rookie tight end will finish his season with five receptions for 30 yards in nine games.
Published: Sat, Dec 7 at 10:43am by Rotowire.com
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Ruled out again
Sample (ankle) is ruled out for Sunday's tilt against the Browns, Tyler Dragon of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.
Analysis: Sample is set to miss a fourth straight game due to his lingering right ankle injury. The Bengals will roll with Tyler Eifert, C.J. Uzomah, Mason Schreck and Cethan Carter at the tight end position in Cleveland on Sunday.
Published: Fri, Dec 6 at 10:49am by Rotowire.com
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Remains out Week 13
Sample (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Jets, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Sample will miss his third straight game since suffering the right ankle injury Week 10 against the Ravens. Tyler Eifert and C.J. Uzomah are the team's only healthy tight ends since Cethan Carter (concussion) also has been ruled out.
Published: Fri, Nov 29 at 10:44am by Rotowire.com
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Dealing with serious ankle issue
Sample has a high-ankle sprain, and he's considered a candidate for IR, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Sample will undergo additional testing to determine a timeline for his return, but the winless Bengals may opt to shut down their rookie second-rounder to avoid him unnecessarily aggravating the injury. The nature of the injury will keep him out at least through Week 11's matchup against the Raiders. Cethan Carter will work as the No. 3 tight end in Sample's place.
Published: Tue, Nov 12 at 12:59pm by Rotowire.com
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Sports walking boot
Sample wore a boot on his right foot after injuring his ankle during Sunday's loss to the Ravens, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Sample didn't return after sustaining this injury Sunday, and his status is uncertain for Week 11's matchup against the Raiders. We'll know more when the Bengals release their first official injury report following Wednesday's practice. Sample has five catches for 30 yards this year, and Cethan Carter would bump into the No. 3 role if Sample's unable to play.
Published: Mon, Nov 11 at 11:40am by Rotowire.com
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Injures ankle Sunday
Sample was forced out of Sunday's game against the Ravens with an ankle injury, Jay Morrison of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Sample hauled in a three-yard pass before exiting the contest. If he's unable to return, Cethan Carter could see an increase in duties behind Tyler Eifert and C.J. Uzomah.
Published: Sun, Nov 10 at 11:16am by Rotowire.com
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