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The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly close to bringing back star tight end Mike Gesicki. Gesicki earned his role with the Bengals this past season and has been a priority for the front office this offseason.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported the news on social media.
The #Bengals are closing in on a deal to bring back a key free agent, as TE Mike Gesicki is expected to return, sources say.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 8, 2025
The pass-catching TE broke out in 2024 with 65 catches for 665 yards and 2 TDs. Now, in Cincy to stay. pic.twitter.com/972PlR7UbZ
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter has reported that the Bengals deal with the veteran tight end is for three years, worth $25.5 million. Gesicki will be getting $12 million of this deal in the first year of the contract.
Tight end Mike Gesicki is re-signing with the Benglas on a three-year, $25.5 million deal, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 8, 2025
Gesicki posted 65 catches for the Bengals this past season, putting up 665 yards and two scores. While his numbers weren't fully eye-popping, his presence on the field changed everything for Cincinnati.
The veteran tight end is one of the more athletic around the NFL and teams had to scheme against him. It became a pick-your-poison type of situation for opposing defenses due to the other strong weapons that the Bengals had on offense.
Gesicki immediately developed strong chemistry with quarterback Joe Burrow and it helped the offense become one of the best around the game. Burrow has been open about his desire for Gesicki to return this offseason and it seems that the front office is listening.
With Gesicki now back in the mix, the real work begins for the Bengals. The team is still dealing with contract situations with star wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Both want brand new long-term deals but it remains to be seen if the Bengals will be able to sign them. Chase has been seen as the priority between the two but no deal has come about just yet.
Cincinnati also is fielding trades for star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson as they have allowed him to seek a trade. Hendrickson also wants a new contract but he is likely to be the odd man out this offseason.
Read more: Top Landing Spots For All-Pro Trey Hendrickson After Bengals Allow Him to Seek Trade
All in all, the Bengals have a very busy offseason ahead of them. This could be one of the most important in the history of the franchise due to the star players involved.
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About the writer
Matt Levine works as a contributing writer for Newsweek based in California. His expertise is in covering the NBA but ... Read more