South Carolina's Demetrius Knight pushes back against reports he's sitting out Cincinnati Bengals rookie camp

South Carolina football product Demetrius Knight had his NFL dream realized two weeks ago when the Cincinnati Bengals selected him in the second round (round two, pick 17; No. 49 overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft. Rookie camp for the Bengals began over the weekend, but on Monday, a report from MLFootball stated that Knight was sitting out.

According to that report, Knight was sitting out because Cincinnati’s rookie waiver doesn’t protect players. All NFL organizations are required to provide protection for unsigned rookies–essentially, injury insurance–while players and organizations negotiate contracts. However, the Bengals are the only team that doesn’t provide full protection, only insuring players who suffer “disabling injuries.”

Per MLFootball’s report, Knight and several other non-participating Bengals rookies were hopeful their efforts will result in organizational change that will benefit future players.

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According to Knight, though, that is not accurate. In a post on Twitter/X on Monday evening, the former Gamecock pushed back against the report. Knight stated that the report was “news to [him]” and that he had a great practice on Monday. He also added that he is looking forward to participating in tomorrow’s practice, as well.

Knight being on the field is good news for a Bengals team that needs defensive help. During the 2024 season, Cincinnati ranked in the NFL’s bottom third in total yards allowed and points surrendered.

In his one season in Columbia, Knight had an All-SEC season for the Gamecocks. He was second at USC in tackles and made the game-sealing interception in Carolina’s win over the rival Clemson Tigers. Knight’s blend of size, speed, and intangibles should make him an excellent NFL player.

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