Cody Ford has found stability with the Cincinnati Bengals. He was first signed by the club as a free agent in 2023 and has since signed two additional contracts. His most recent was a two-year, $6 million deal he inked days before free agency began in 2025, a clear sign Cincinnati viewed him as an integral piece of the puzzle last year.
Those feelings may’ve already expired less than a full year later.
The Athletic’s Paul Dehner Jr. predicts the Bengals will release Ford this offseason to create salary cap space.
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“I don’t see Ford on the 2026 roster, especially if the Bengals pluck a swing tackle in the draft. Putting that money toward a defensive player makes more sense.” — The Athletic’s Paul Dehner Jr.
Why the Bengals would release Cody Ford
Cincinnati raised expectations for Ford following the 2024 season. The former second-round pick started eight games that year in relief. He started six games at tackle (five at left tackle, one at right tackle) during weeks when Orlando Brown Jr. or Amarius Mims were out, and two starts were at left guard when Cordell Volson was benched.
The Bengals specifically noted Ford’s relatively improved play at LG. They knew both guard spots needed better starters in 2025, and Ford made himself a starting candidate entering the offseason.
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This is why Cincinnati signed Ford to more than just another one-year deal. He was expected to compete for a starting guard gig and at least provide depth at both guard and tackle during the season.
Ford competed to start at RG, but he proved unreliable there. He was relegated to swing tackle duties and came off the bench in four games for Mims at RT. In 21 True Pass Sets, plays with at least four pass rushers that aren’t play action, screens, and a time to throw of at least two seconds, Ford allowed a sack, a hit, and a hurry.
In short, he wasn’t a real answer at guard, and his play at tackle can be upgraded.
The Bengals can save $2.9 million by releasing Ford. It’s not an offseason-changing move to cut ties with him, but it’s logical beyond the financials.
Ford turned 29 a few weeks ago when he turned a surprise hitch route into a shocking 21-yard reception against the Arizona Cardinals. As Cincinnati looks for a potential future replacement for Brown, who’s turning 30 this year, Ford is not next in line. That answer could very well be found in the upcoming NFL Draft, and clearing the way for a new swing tackle/starter in the waiting makes sense.
Ford’s contract was designed with expendability in mind. He had a chance to increase his value, but it didn’t work out. Whether it happens before free agency or before the season begins, his time with the Bengals looks to be running out.
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This story was originally published by A to Z Sports on Jan 16, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add A to Z Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.