This release of Rankins comes as the Bengals prepare for the upcoming free agency period, positioning them eighth in the league with approximately $61.9 million in available funds.

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a pivotal offseason, particularly with the potential free agency of wide receiver Tee Higgins and contract negotiations for Pro Bowlers Ja'Marr Chase and Trey Hendrickson.

As of February 2025, the Bengals are projected to have over $49 million in salary cap space, not including the potential for further roster cuts.

The Bengals' defensive line also requires attention this offseason, as several key players, including B.J. Hill, Joseph Ossai, Jay Tufele, and Cameron Sample, are set to become free agents.

This increase in the salary cap follows a trend of substantial growth, with the cap having risen from $224.8 million in 2023 to $255.4 million in 2024.

Cincinnati is focused on managing its finances wisely as it seeks to negotiate extensions for star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase while also addressing the contract situations of Tee Higgins and reigning sack leader Trey Hendrickson.

In a move to create more financial flexibility, the Bengals have released veteran defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins, which frees up $9.6 million in salary cap space.

Rankins, who was signed as an unrestricted free agent in March 2024, had a disappointing season, playing only seven games due to a viral illness and injuries, recording 18 tackles and one sack.

The NFL's salary cap is projected to rise significantly in 2025, expected to be between $277.5 million and $281.5 million, a notable increase from $255.4 million in 2024.

Quarterback Joe Burrow has publicly expressed his desire to retain Tee Higgins and is willing to restructure his own contract to help facilitate this.