The former fourth-round pick was cut by the Patriots in the middle of the 2024 season. Cincinnati claimed him off waivers and used him primarily on special teams for six games. The one-year deal gives him a shot to earn more work as a depth option at corner while still contributing on special teams if he makes the Bengals’ 53-man roster.

It’s the second waiver claim on Wilson in as many years, as the Patriots claimed him in the middle of last season from the Cardinals. Wilson has yet to deliver above a 61.2 PFF coverage grade in his four years in the NFL, but with DJ Turner (clavicle) down, the Bengals clearly needed depth at corner.

Wilson played a season-low nine defensive snaps in the Patriots’ Week 11 loss to the Rams. The fourth-year corner was claimed off waivers by the Patriots last December and has played on 206 defensive snaps this season while earning a PFF coverage grade of 51.2. Wilson has 54 games of playing experience under his belt and has made 37 starts. It wouldn’t be surprising if he was picked up by another team in the coming days.

The 2021 fourth-round pick was waived by the Cardinals earlier this year. The move was a bit of a surprise as Wilson started 11 games and appeared in all 15 before being cut. He has four pass breakups and 52 tackles this year. Wilson will look to make a good impression in New England to close out the year.