Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Zack Moss was released by the Cincinnati Bengals on July 30, 2025, after recovering from a serious neck injury.
- The Bengals are now relying on Chase Brown, supported by veterans Samaje Perine and rookie Tahj Brooks, to lead their backfield.
- Moss’s injury history and age may impact his opportunities in the NFL moving forward, but his potential for a comeback remains.
- The team’s roster adjustments continue, including activating rookie Seth McLaughlin amidst ongoing training camp developments.
- The 2025 season will reveal how Cincinnati’s revamped backfield performs without Moss and how new players step into larger roles.
Table of Contents
Bengals Release Zack Moss: What Just Happened?
Impact on the Bengals Backfield
Bengals Release Zack Moss: What Just Happened?
The Cincinnati Bengals officially released veteran running back Zack Moss on July 30, 2025. This move ends Moss’s tenure with the team after his difficult recovery from a broken neck suffered during the 2024 season[1][2].
Understanding the Release
Zack Moss, a sixth-year NFL player, signed with the Bengals in the 2024 offseason as an unrestricted free agent. He had a promising start but suffered a severe neck injury (broken C6 vertebra) that sidelined him for the remainder of last season[4][5]. Despite restructuring his contract to reduce his 2025 salary from $3.5 million to $1.8 million in hopes of making a comeback, his health seemed to have prevented him from fully returning to form[1][5].
Moss’s 2024 stats before the injury included 242 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and 23 catches for 187 yards and one receiving touchdown over eight games[1][2][3]. However, his rushing average dropped to a career-low 3.3 yards per attempt the previous season, signaling a decline in on-field production[1].
Impact on the Bengals Backfield
With Moss’s release, the Bengals are placing their confidence in running back Chase Brown, who emerged as the team’s lead back after Moss’s injury last year. Brown’s assured role suggests the team’s plan to move forward without Moss. Supporting Brown in the rotating backfield are near-30 veteran Samaje Perine and sixth-round rookie Tahj Brooks. Perine brings a dual-threat capability, especially as a pass-catcher, a role Moss had partially filled[1][2]. Brooks has reportedly impressed early on, especially with his receiving skills, indicating increasing depth and versatility in Cincinnati’s backfield[1].
Zack Moss’s NFL Future
Moss’s release amid a tough injury recovery raises questions about his future in the league. Neck injuries are serious and often pose long-term health risks, which could limit his opportunities elsewhere[2][5]. Nonetheless, Moss’s youth relative to other veterans and his prior potential might interest teams willing to take a low-risk bet on a comeback.
What’s Next for Bengals Fans?
For Bengals supporters, the focus shifts to how the revamped backfield performs in the 2025 season. Chase Brown’s continued development will be crucial, while Perine and Brooks must step up in the absence of Moss’s experience and versatility. The team also activated rookie Seth McLaughlin from injury, signaling ongoing roster adjustments ahead of training camp[2][3].
FAQ
What impact did Zack Moss’s injury have on his career?
Moss’s injury, a broken neck (C6 vertebra), significantly limited his playing time and likely affected his long-term health prospects, contributing to his release by the Bengals.
Who are the main players replacing Moss?
Chase Brown leads the backfield, supported by veteran Samaje Perine and rookie Tahj Brooks, who has shown promising receiving skills.
What are the prospects for Moss’s NFL comeback?
While his injury history poses risks, Moss’s youth and past potential may attract interest from teams willing to take a chance on his recovery and skills.
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