The Cincinnati Bengals kicked off their rookie minicamp on Friday, May 8, with a full house—and a refreshing change of pace from last year's contract drama. While second-round edge rusher Cashius Howell (Texas A&M) and third-round cornerback Tacario Davis (University of Washington) were the only two draft picks yet to sign their rookie contracts, both players suited up and participated after signing waivers. This marks a stark contrast to 2025, when top picks Shemar Stewart and Demetrius Knight sat out the entire minicamp due to contract disputes—Stewart didn't join on-field activities until the end of July.

Howell and Davis made it clear: they weren't about to miss a single rep. "I love football," Howell said. "Regardless of negotiations still being attacked, I wanted to do everything in my power to put myself in the best position. Contract not being fully negotiated doesn't really matter." Davis echoed that sentiment, noting his focus was on "stealing reps" and getting a feel for the Bengals' system. "It's really just getting to feel how they do things, so when we get with the whole team, it's not new—it's second nature," he added.

The session itself was brief—less than an hour of drills—but it served as a crucial first step in acclimating the rookies to their new environment. Fourth-round picks Connor Lew (center) and Colbie Young (receiver), sixth-rounder Brian Parker II (linebacker), and seventh-round selections Jack Endries (tight end) and Landon Robinson (defensive back) all signed and were present, though Lew is still rehabbing from an October ACL tear. Ten undrafted college free agents also joined the action.

For Parker, a St. Xavier High School graduate and Cincinnati native, putting on the Bengals gear for the first time carried extra weight. "Obviously super cool," he said. "When I got back home from draft day, I was ecstatic." Howell called the moment a "blessing," while Davis described it as a special realization of making it to the NFL. The rookies and first-year players will continue working together next week before integrating with veterans the following week—a steady build toward what the Bengals hope is a stronger, more cohesive unit in 2026.