Bengals Sign Veteran Linebacker Oren Burks to Two-Year Deal

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Bengals have announced the signing of linebacker Oren Burks to a two-year contract on March 17, 2025, in a move aimed at strengthening their linebacker corps under new position coach Al Golden.

Burks, who stands 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighs 233 pounds, joins the Bengals after a successful playoff run with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he played a crucial role filling in for injured linebacker Nakobe Dean. His new contract with Cincinnati is reportedly worth $5 million over the two years.

The 29-year-old Burks is an experienced player in the NFL, with stints in Green Bay, San Francisco, and Philadelphia since being drafted in the third round in 2018. In 108 regular-season games, he has compiled 161 tackles, eight tackles for loss (TFLs), two sacks, and one interception. Notably, he has participated in 15 career postseason games.

Last season, Burks showcased his skills while racking up numerous defensive snaps during the Eagles’ playoff run, where he recorded 25 tackles, three TFLs, and forced two fumbles. His performance included five tackles during Super Bowl LIX, helping the Eagles claim victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.

Cincinnati’s Director of Player Personnel Duke Tobin discussed the team’s approach to the linebacker position last month, indicating a thorough evaluation process was underway. “It’s a position we’re looking at. I think we need some linebacker unit help to be honest with you,” Tobin said. “We’ll look and see what it looks like.”

The addition of Burks comes at a significant time for Cincinnati, which also sees former linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither leaving for a two-year, $11 million deal in Arizona after being a key special teams player for the Bengals. There are indications that the Bengals are preparing for further roster changes, including a potential trade involving linebacker Germaine Pratt, who has requested to be moved.

With Burks’ experience and playoff pedigree, the Bengals aim to bolster their defense as they look forward to the upcoming season. Burks is expected to compete for a starting position alongside Logan Wilson as Cincinnati’s defensive strategy evolves with new leadership.

The Bengals are hoping Burks will enhance their defensive lineup, particularly in crucial moments, as he has demonstrated throughout his career. Burks’ arrival is indicative of Cincinnati’s commitment to improving performance at linebacker ahead of the 2025 season.