Some unexpected drama unfolded in the Cincinnati Bengals‘ rookie minicamp. Zac Taylor’s team signed four draft picks on Thursday, leaving the two rookies still without a contract. But it came out worse when some reports appeared stating that one of those unsigned rookies isn’t participating in minicamp this time. But it’s not because of money. Strange! We are talking about Bengals rookie linebacker Demetrius Knight II.

According to MLFootball on X, “#Bengals 2nd-round LB Demetrius Knight II is not participating in drills because Cincinnati’s rookie waiver, unlike those of the other 31 #NFL teams, does not fully protect players….All NFL teams use waivers to protect unsigned rookies before contracts, but Cincinnati’s waiver only covers “disabling injuries,” according to league sources familiar with the language.”

In addition, the post also stated, “Sources say Knight and other non-participating Cincinnati rookies are not holding out for money but for complete protection and are aiming to change the waiver language for future Bengals draft picks.” However, let us tell you, this news is fake! Zac Taylor’s rookie reshared this post on hs official X account and said, “(laughing emojis) news to me! Had a great practice today and looking forward to practice tomorrow, thanks!”

So, yeah, the news of him holding out is fake. The second round (49th overall) pick is participating in the camp every day with all his heart and soul. In fact, he has also found a literal bond with defensive coordinator Al Golden. A bond like James Bond. Well, that’s how Zac Taylor’s rookie put it after being impressed with the coach.

After the 45-minute drill with the DC on the Paycor Stadium turf, Knight said, “He gives me a James Bond type of feeling. Silent killer. But a mastermind. Love it.” So, it would be safe to say that the rookie’s strong, traditional linebacker build could help the team in stopping the run effectively. In addition, his versatility will allow him to play both inside and outside on the line of scrimmage.

So, Knight is now looking to sign his rookie contract just like his peers. Hence, it remains to be seen when the money update comes for him. Besides him, Zac Taylor’s team also has veteran Trey Hendrickson, who is also sitting out for the contract.

Will Zac Taylor and the Bengals pay Trey Hendrickson?

We are all aware that Trey Hendrickson is waiting for his contract extension as the 30-year-old is entering the final year of his deal that is set to pay him $15.8 million. So, will he be paid? Especially when Zac Taylor and the Bengals satisfied Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins with huge.

No doubt, Hendrickson had a monster season with 17.5 sacks. He has been pretty vocal about wanting to stay in Cincinnati. And honestly, with numbers like his, you’d expect the front office to move quicker. Still, NFL insider Ian Rapoport believes the team will lock him up eventually. He said, “I understand he’s (Trey Hendrickson) mad. I do believe they’re going to pay him properly and eventually get this done, and he’ll be on the field, rich and happy. He wants a deal, but the team hasn’t shown the urgency that he wants. And he deserves a raise. He is awesome, and he deserves more money. I believe they’re going to give it to him.” But the question is, when?

For that, the NFL Network’s insider added, “The Bengals are just a little bit more of a methodical organization than a lot of teams. We saw how long it took for them to do the Ja’Marr and Tee deal.” So, for now, it’s all eyes on the Bengals to see if they step up before it’s too late.