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The Bengals starter who’s improved the most from last year is obvious

Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. may well be the most improved player on the team compared to last season.

By Dylan Oakley · Stripe Hype

Published: Tuesday, 13 October 2026 at 12:30 PM

Key Things to Know

Writer Dylan Oakley names Demetrius Knight Jr. as the Cincinnati Bengals' most improved starter this season.
The Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Miami Dolphins 31-24 to move to a 3-2 record before their bye week.
Knight Jr. is averaging 8.4 tackles per game in 2026 compared to 6.2 tackles per game last season.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Stripe Hype writer Dylan Oakley argues that Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. is the team's most improved starting player this season. The Bengals entered their bye week at 3-2 after a 31-24 victory over the Miami Dolphins, where the defense forced three turnovers.

Oakley highlights that both Knight Jr. and second-year linebacker Barrett Carter have significantly progressed after facing heavy criticism during their rookie campaigns. Statistical improvements for Knight Jr. include averaging 8.4 tackles per game, scoring a defensive touchdown, and earning top PFF run defense rankings.

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The Bengals starter who’s improved the most from last year is obvious

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