Hardy

Nickerson

Kirkpatrick hyperextended his knee last month and wasn’t showing much improvement. Cincinnati promoted LB Hardy Nickerson from their practice squad in the corresponding roster move. B.W. Webb will continue to fill in at corner for the 0-9 Bengals.

The Bengals needed to clear a roster spot for Vontaze Burfict, who is back from a three-game suspension. The undrafted rookie has played just four defensive snaps this season.

Nickerson (6’0/232) was a three-year starter at Cal before transferring to Illinois as a graduate student to play for his father and Lovie Smith in 2016. While a recognizable name because of his longtime NFL linebacker dad, Nickerson was a low-impact college Mike ‘backer who managed honorable mention All-Big Ten honors last year and especially struggled against the run. Nickerson tested poorly in Indy with 4.78 speed and a sluggish 9-foot-8 broad jump. Nickerson’s bloodlines are the best thing going for him.