The Stone Shields Show: Cincinnati Bengals, Reds, Bearcats Daily Sports Talk

Miami Head Coach Travis Steele On Perfect Regular Season + Bengals Lose Trey Hendrickson To Ravens

On today's show, Stone is joined by Miami head coach Travis Steele and they discuss Miami's perfect 31-0 regular season, the MAC tournament beginning tomorrow and Miami's new arena. Also, we react to the Ravens backing out of the Maxx Crosby trade, Trey Hendrickson signing with the Baltimore Ravens and the Bengals ultimately going radio silent the second day of free agency.
Hunter Greene will likely miss the first half of the 2026 season for the Cincinnati Reds after undergoing elbow surgery, a significant setback for a team that expected its ace to anchor the rotation on Opening Day. The 26-year-old right-hander is scheduled to have an arthroscopic procedure to remove bone chips and loose bodies from his throwing elbow, and early projections indicate he may not return until around July.
The issue surfaced during spring training when Greene experienced stiffness in his right elbow following his first Cactus League appearance. After additional imaging and consultations with specialists, including renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the Reds decided surgery was the best course of action. The procedure is expected to sideline Greene for roughly three to four months, effectively keeping him out until the middle of the summer.
For Cincinnati, the timing is particularly unfortunate. Greene was expected to lead a promising rotation after emerging as one of the league’s most electric power pitchers over the past few seasons. Known for his triple-digit fastball, he averaged nearly 100 mph with the pitch in 2025 and has routinely ranked among MLB leaders in pitches thrown over 100 mph. When healthy, he has shown ace-level potential, highlighted by his 2024 All-Star season in which he posted a 2.75 ERA across more than 150 innings.
Injuries, however, have repeatedly interrupted Greene’s development. Prior ailments have included shoulder, hip, groin, and elbow issues, and he has rarely been able to complete a full season workload. The current injury reportedly traces back to discomfort he felt late in the 2025 campaign but attempted to pitch through as the Reds pushed toward the postseason.
Without Greene, Cincinnati will rely heavily on the rest of its rotation to begin the year. Left-hander Andrew Abbott is expected to take the ball on Opening Day, while pitchers like Nick Lodolo, Brady Singer, and several young arms may be asked to fill the void until Greene returns.
Despite the setback, the Reds remain hopeful that Greene can return healthy in the second half and provide a major boost during the stretch run of the season.
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Cincinnati Bengals Sign Bryan Cook & Boye Mafe In NFL Free Agency + Malik Willis To Dolphins, Tua Tagovailoa To Falcons

On today's show, we react to the Bengals signing Bryan Cook and Boye Mafe during day 1 of NFL free agency and look ahead to some more potential free agent targets for the Bengals. Plus, we recap some of the noteworthy signings from around the league, including Malik Willis to the Dolphins, Tua Tagovailoa to the Falcons, Mike Evans to the 49ers and more.
The Cincinnati Bengals made a major statement at the start of the 2026 NFL free agency period by signing edge rusher Boye Mafe and safety Bryan Cook. The two additions signal a clear effort by Cincinnati’s front office to rebuild and strengthen a defense that struggled in recent seasons.
Cook joins the Bengals on a reported three-year deal worth around $42.5 million after spending the first part of his career with the Kansas City Chiefs. A Cincinnati native and former standout at the University of Cincinnati, Cook returns to his hometown as an established NFL starter. Since entering the league as a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, he has developed into one of the league’s more reliable safeties, known for his physical tackling and consistency in coverage. Over the past few seasons, Cook has accumulated more than 200 tackles and has been praised for his durability and ability to contribute against both the run and the pass. He also brings championship experience to Cincinnati, having won two Super Bowls during his time in Kansas City.
The Bengals also bolstered their pass rush by signing Mafe to a three-year, $60 million contract. Mafe previously played for the Seattle Seahawks after being selected in the second round of the 2022 draft out of the University of Minnesota. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing around 260 pounds, Mafe is known for his athleticism and speed off the edge. During his time in Seattle, he totaled 20 career sacks and became a key rotational defender on a Super Bowl-winning team. His breakout season came in 2023 when he recorded nine sacks, showcasing his potential as a high-impact pass rusher.
Together, the two deals are worth just over $100 million, highlighting Cincinnati’s aggressive approach to fixing its defense. The Bengals struggled with pass rush production and consistency in the secondary in recent seasons, making edge rusher and safety two of their biggest needs entering free agency.
If Cook provides stability on the back end and Mafe develops into a consistent pressure generator, these signings could play a major role in helping the Bengals return to playoff contention in the AFC.
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NFL Legal Tampering Window Reaction, Maxx Crosby To Ravens, Miami Perfection, Andrew Abbott Opening Day Starter

On today's show, we react live to some of the moves that went down on Monday, including Tua Tagovailoa's release and the Cowboys trading for Rashan Gary. Plus, we discuss the Bengals missing out on Maxx Crosby and him coming to the AFC North, Miami's perfect season after a wild Friday night win and another missed opportunity for Wes Miller and the Bearcats.
The NFL offseason officially kicked into high gear Monday with the opening of the league’s “legal tampering” window, the two-day negotiating period that often produces a flood of reported deals before free agency formally begins. Starting at noon ET on March 9, teams were allowed to begin negotiating contract terms with the agents of unrestricted free agents across the league.
While no contracts can be signed until the start of the new league year at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, the tampering window has become the unofficial launch of free agency. Teams routinely reach handshake agreements during this period, which are then formally announced once the league year begins.
This year’s negotiating window also includes a notable tweak to the rules. For the first time, teams are permitted to directly contact a limited number of players — up to five free agents — via phone or video call during the period. Previously, communication had to occur strictly through agents.
The change reflects the NFL’s effort to streamline the process and make discussions more transparent, though the irony remains that the so-called “tampering” period often produces immediate reports of massive deals across the league. With teams finalizing their salary cap strategies and targeting key roster upgrades, the next 48 hours typically shape the early landscape of the free agency market.
Meanwhile in Cincinnati, the Cincinnati Reds made a notable announcement ahead of the 2026 season by naming Andrew Abbott their Opening Day starter. The left-hander will take the mound at Great American Ball Park on March 26 against the Boston Red Sox, marking the first Opening Day assignment of his MLB career.
Abbott, 27, has quickly developed into one of the anchors of the Reds’ rotation since debuting in 2023. He earned his first All-Star selection in 2025 and has posted strong numbers early in his career, including a 3.42 ERA and hundreds of strikeouts through his first few major league seasons.
His selection also reflects the club’s confidence in his continued development as a front-line starter. With the Reds aiming to contend in the National League Central, giving Abbott the ball on Opening Day signals both recognition of his performance and the team’s belief that he can lead the pitching staff into the new season.
Together, the NFL’s free-agency frenzy and the Reds’ pitching decision highlight how early March marks a pivotal transition period across the sports calendar — one where roster moves and key announcements begin shaping the months ahead.
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Cincinnati Bengals Free Agency Predictions, Cincinnati vs. TCU, Miami Hoops, Matt McClain Red Hot

On today's show, we break down some Cincinnati Bengals free agency predictions before the NFL's legal tampering window opens on Monday, as well as discuss some players the Bengals should avoid. Also, the Reds win a wild exhibition game against the Dodgers as Matt McClain stays hot, plus massive college basketball games this weekend for Miami and Cincinnati.
The Cincinnati Bengals should strongly consider targeting both Dre'Mont Jones and DJ Reader in free agency as they look to rebuild and strengthen the defensive line. With questions surrounding the future of several defenders and the need for both pass rush and interior run defense, these two players offer different but complementary skill sets that could immediately improve Cincinnati’s front.
Jones would give the Bengals a versatile pass-rushing presence along the defensive line. Since entering the league in 2019, he has proven capable of lining up both inside and on the edge, creating matchup problems for opposing offensive lines. Over his career he has accumulated more than 30 sacks and over 200 tackles, demonstrating consistent production for a defensive lineman. His quick first step and ability to penetrate the backfield would help generate interior pressure—something that can disrupt quarterbacks and complement edge rushers. In recent seasons, Jones has also shown positional flexibility, playing defensive tackle, defensive end, and even standing up as an outside linebacker in certain schemes. That versatility could fit well in a Bengals defense that values adaptable defensive fronts.
Meanwhile, Reader represents a familiar and proven option for Cincinnati. During his previous stint with the Bengals, he served as one of the league’s most reliable run-stuffing defensive tackles. His primary strength is his ability to clog running lanes, absorb double teams, and allow linebackers to flow freely to the ball. Analysts have noted that when Reader is on the field, Cincinnati’s run defense tends to perform at a significantly higher level due to his gap-plugging ability. Even as he enters his early 30s, his experience and leadership would provide stability to a defensive line that could benefit from a veteran anchor in the middle.
Together, Jones and Reader would address two critical needs for the Bengals: interior pass rush and elite run defense. Adding Jones’ explosiveness alongside Reader’s physicality could create a balanced defensive line capable of controlling the line of scrimmage and helping Cincinnati return to playoff contention.
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Cincinnati Bengals Free Agent Targets With Joe Goodberry, Hunter Greene Injury, Arnold Palmer Invitational

On today's show, Stone is joined by Joe Goodberry and they break down the top free agent targets for the Cincinnati Bengals before the NFL's legal tampering period opens on Monday. Also, we discuss Hunter Greene's injury, the Chiefs trading Trent McDuffie to the Rams and the future of the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
With the NFL’s legal tampering period opening Monday, the Cincinnati Bengals enter free agency with several roster holes that could determine whether they return to playoff contention in 2026. After missing the postseason for three straight seasons, team leadership has emphasized adding defensive talent and improving depth around franchise quarterback Joe Burrow.
One of the most obvious positions the Bengals should target is edge rusher. The team declined to franchise tag star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, allowing him to enter free agency, which creates a massive hole in the pass rush if he departs. Cincinnati’s defense already struggled to generate consistent pressure, so adding at least one veteran edge rusher should be a top priority. Analysts have suggested the Bengals may pursue multiple pass rushers in free agency to bolster the rotation and avoid relying too heavily on younger players.
Another position to prioritize is defensive tackle, particularly an interior pass-rusher. The Bengals have lacked consistent disruption up the middle, which allows opposing quarterbacks to step up in the pocket and neutralize outside pressure. Improving the interior defensive line would help both the run defense and pass rush, giving Cincinnati a more balanced defensive front. Several evaluations of the roster note that adding interior push is one of the defense’s biggest needs this offseason.
The Bengals should also consider targeting linebacker depth, ideally a veteran presence who can stabilize the middle of the defense. While Cincinnati has promising young defenders, analysts have pointed out the need for experienced linebackers who can help in coverage and run support. Veteran leadership at the position could improve communication and consistency in defensive alignments.
Finally, wide receiver depth could be another sneaky priority. The offense revolves around Burrow and star playmakers, but Cincinnati could use a reliable WR3 who can stretch defenses and punish teams for focusing on the top targets. Some analysts have pointed to the need for a more productive third receiver to complement the Bengals’ passing attack.
If Cincinnati aggressively addresses edge rusher, defensive tackle, linebacker, and wide receiver depth during free agency, the team could significantly improve its roster heading into the 2026 season. Strengthening those areas would also maximize the championship window around Burrow and one of the league’s most explosive offenses.
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Cincinnati Bengals Mock Draft From Dane Brugler, Trey Hendrickson Saga Over, Luke Skaljac On 30-0 Miami RedHawks

On today's show, Stone is joined by Miami RedHawks point guard Luke Skaljac and they discuss the 30-0 start to the season for the Miami RedHawks. Also, we break down Dane Brugler's two-round mock draft for The Athletic and do one final Trey Hendrickson segment as his time in Cincinnati is officially over.
The Cincinnati Bengals made a calculated and somewhat surprising decision by choosing not to use the franchise tag on star defensive end Trey Hendrickson. On the surface, tagging Hendrickson would have guaranteed the team another year of elite edge production while buying time to negotiate a long-term extension. However, the Bengals’ choice signals a broader strategic approach shaped by financial realities and roster priorities.
Hendrickson has been one of the NFL’s most productive pass rushers since arriving in Cincinnati, consistently ranking near the top of the league in sacks and quarterback pressures. Letting a player of that caliber approach the open market — or at least declining to tag him — suggests the Bengals are carefully managing their salary cap with an eye toward the future. With massive long-term investments already committed to franchise quarterback Joe Burrow and key offensive weapons like Ja'Marr Chase, the front office faces tough financial trade-offs.
The franchise tag for a top defensive end would have come with a significant one-year cap hit, potentially limiting flexibility to address other needs, including offensive line depth and secondary reinforcements. By not tagging Hendrickson, the Bengals may be signaling confidence in their ability to negotiate a more cap-friendly multi-year deal, or they may be preparing for the possibility of reallocating resources to younger, ascending defenders.
There’s also a philosophical element at play. Cincinnati has increasingly built through the draft and developed internal talent rather than relying on expensive short-term fixes. If the organization believes it can maintain defensive pressure through scheme, rotation, and emerging players, declining the tag becomes more understandable.
Ultimately, the decision underscores the delicate balancing act facing contenders: retaining elite talent while sustaining long-term roster health. Whether this gamble pays off will hinge on how the Bengals reshape their pass rush moving forward.
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Cincinnati Bengals Draft Rumors From The Athletic, Dalton Risner Re-Signing, David Montgomery Trade

On today's show, we break down the latest Cincinnati Bengals draft rumors after a new top 10 mock draft from The Athletic's Mike Sando, after he polled 4 executives around the league + is there reason to be concerned about Caleb Downs' knee? Also, UC hosts BYU, and Miami hosts Toledo in local college hoops, plus David Montgomery gets traded to the Texans, could Maxx Crosby be on the move next?
With the No. 10 overall pick, the Cincinnati Bengals face a classic roster-building dilemma: reinforce the trenches to protect their franchise quarterback or bolster a defense that has shown inconsistency in key moments.
The offensive line argument starts and ends with protecting Joe Burrow. When healthy and upright, Burrow is one of the league’s most efficient and poised passers. However, injuries and heavy pressure in recent seasons have exposed the fragility of Cincinnati’s Super Bowl window. Drafting a high-end offensive lineman at No. 10 would provide cost-controlled stability and potentially solidify a tackle or guard spot for the next decade. In a division featuring elite pass rushers, long-term protection is not a luxury — it’s a necessity. Investing here would signal a commitment to sustaining offensive explosiveness while reducing injury risk to the franchise cornerstone.
On the other hand, there’s a compelling case for defense. The Bengals’ identity during their Super Bowl run was built on timely stops and opportunistic playmaking. If the front office believes the offensive line is serviceable after free agency additions, adding a premier edge rusher, cornerback, or interior disruptor could elevate the defense from solid to game-changing. In a conference loaded with elite quarterbacks, consistent pressure and coverage depth are critical. A defensive playmaker on a rookie contract could also offset looming cap pressures on veteran defenders.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on board value and organizational philosophy. If a blue-chip offensive lineman falls, protecting Burrow may be the prudent choice. If defensive talent is clearly superior at that spot, maximizing impact elsewhere could offer greater overall roster balance. At No. 10, it’s less about position and more about securing a foundational piece for sustained contention.
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Cincinnati Bengals Re-Sign Dalton Risner, Trey Perry Buzzer Beater vs. Western Michigan, UC Cruises

On today's show, Stone is joined by Reid Maus and Craig Sandlin as they discuss the Cincinnati Bengals re-signing IOL Dalton Risner and how this may impact free agency and the NFL Draft. Also, we discuss a wild weekend of college basketball where Miami once again snatched victory from the jaws of defeat after Trey Perry beat the buzzer vs. Western Michigan + UC stayed alive with a dominant victory over Oklahoma State.
The Dalton Risner has agreed to return to the Cincinnati Bengals on a new contract, bringing continuity to one of the team’s most important offensive pieces. Official announcements from the Bengals this morning confirm that Risner has signed a one-year deal for the 2026 season, marking his second consecutive year in Cincinnati after joining as a free agent ahead of the 2025 campaign. The contract is reportedly worth up to $5 million, according to league sources.
Risner became a key contributor to the Bengals’ offensive line last season, playing in 14 games and making 11 starts throughout the 2025 schedule. His versatility—lining up at guard and providing reliable pass protection—helped stabilize a unit that had seen turnover and injuries. His return ensures that the protection in front of quarterback Joe Burrow remains anchored by experienced linemen as Cincinnati looks to improve on its offensive performance in 2026.
The re-signing was first made public on social media by Risner’s wife, Whitney, before the team confirmed the deal later in the morning. Fan reaction on community and team forums has been positive, with many supporters pleased that the Bengals prioritized locking him up before free agency officially begins.
For Cincinnati, Risner’s return is also a strategic move ahead of what figures to be a busy offseason. Securing a starting guard early allows the front office to focus on other roster needs—particularly on defense—without risking a key free agent slipping away. It’s the Bengals’ first noticeable move of the offseason, signaling their intention to build continuity around a core group while also addressing the wider team picture.
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Cincinnati Bengals Still Interested In Rueben Bain After Arm Length Concerns? Bengals NFLPA Report Card, Reds Win Another 1 Run Game

On today's show, we discuss some NFL draft prospects for the Bengals and whether Rueben Bain's arm length could turn them away if he's still available at #10. Also, we take a look at Mel Kiper's second mock draft, the Bengals NFLPA report card, the Reds winning another 1 run game in Spring Training and more.
Rueben Bain Jr. has consistently graded out as one of the most disruptive defensive linemen in college football, but pre-draft evaluation is rarely just about production. One measurable that could influence his draft stock is arm length — a trait NFL teams weigh heavily when projecting edge defenders and interior pass rushers. If Bain’s arms measure shorter than preferred thresholds, that concern could create a realistic path for him to be available when the Cincinnati Bengals are on the clock at pick No. 10.
For edge defenders, many teams prefer arms around 33 inches or longer. Length helps with first contact, keeping offensive tackles off the frame, extending into passing lanes, and finishing tackles outside the body. Prospects who fall below that benchmark sometimes get labeled as “tweeners” — players without ideal length for the edge and without prototypical mass for full-time interior work. Even if the tape shows power and hand usage, some front offices downgrade players who don’t meet those traditional measurables.
If teams drafting ahead of Cincinnati prioritize traits over tape, Bain could slide behind longer, more toolsy pass rushers. Clubs picking in the top 10 often bet on elite physical ceilings. Arm-length concerns might cause evaluators to question his ability to consistently set the edge against NFL tackles or disengage from longer offensive linemen.
For the Bengals, however, Bain’s potential availability would present value. Cincinnati has historically valued power, leverage, and production along the defensive line. If they view his length as a manageable limitation rather than a fatal flaw, they could see a high-floor, high-motor disruptor who fits their defensive identity.
In that scenario, arm-length concerns elsewhere in the league wouldn’t eliminate Bain from top-10 consideration — they would simply shift him into the Bengals’ range, turning a perceived weakness into Cincinnati’s opportunity.
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ESPN's Jake Trotter On Cincinnati Suing Brendan Sorsby, CFP Expansion + Cincinnati Bengals Looking For Force Multipliers

On today's show, ESPN's Jake Trotter stops by to discuss UC suing Brendan Sorsby, College Football Playoff expansion, Big 10 dominance and the Cleveland Browns future at QB. Also on today's show we discuss Duke Tobin, Zac Taylor and Al Golden saying the Bengals are looking for force multipliers, what the Titans / Jets trade could mean for the Bengals and JJ Bleday and Sal Stewart both going yard. 
In yesterday’s Spring Training game for the Cincinnati Reds, JJ Bleday and Sal Stewart delivered the key offensive highlights, each crushing a long home run to power a 3-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox in Cactus League action.
Stewart got things going early in the top of the second inning, launching a solo blast to center field that put the Reds on the board first and gave them a 1–0 lead. The long shot — which traveled roughly 440 feet — showcased his growing power, coming off a breakout 2025 when he emerged as a dynamic young slugger for Cincinnati.
Just an inning later, Bleday followed with an even more impressive two-run home run in the third. His drive to right field traveled an estimated 464 feet, giving Cincinnati a 3–0 advantage and ultimately accounting for all the runs they needed that afternoon. That blast was one of the longest of this spring and placed Bleday among the elite power hitters during early Grapefruit and Cactus League play.
While the White Sox chipped away late, scoring twice to make it interesting, the Reds’ bullpen held firm enough to preserve the lead. Offensively, the long balls from Stewart and Bleday were the difference makers in a tight game, and both hitters continued to stake claims for regular roles once the regular season begins.
With this showing, Bleday and Stewart reminded fans of their potential impact — especially in a lineup still taking shape and searching for more consistent power production. As spring progresses, performances like these can be pivotal for both players’ confidence and roster positioning.
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