Wisconsin
Former Wisconsin linebacker leads Cincinnati Bengals defense in breakout effort
Former Wisconsin Badgers and current Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Maema Njongmeta had a breakout game in his NFL debut on Saturday.
That debut came in the Bengals 17-14 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first week of the 2024 NFL preseason. He finished the contest with a team-high 10 tackles (seven solo) and two pass deflections.
Every former Wisconsin Badger currently on an NFL roster entering 2024 training camp
The former Badger signed with the Bengals in April after going unselected during the 2024 NFL draft. He is currently listed as a fourth-team inside linebacker on the Bengals’ roster, along with several other post-draft signees.
A debut performance like this one has Njongmeta’s stock soaring as the preseason schedule continues. Bengals writers and fans alike were all surprised by his strong debut showing:
Maema Njongmeta the UDFA LB from Wisconsin has been VERY impressive so far #Bengals
— Logan Fulmer (@Fvlmer) August 11, 2024
I didn’t notice Njongmeta in practices but he just stays poppin’ in this game. The knock on him is that the testing/size wasn’t great.
I messaged a few people shortly after the draft that I thought he had a decent shot. Gonna be cool to see what he’s earning tonight.
— Jake Liscow (@JakeLiscow) August 11, 2024
Great stop by Njongmeta dude is by far the best reserve LB in this game
— Ace Boogie (@NewStripeCity) August 11, 2024
Njongmeta gonna mess around and make the team?
— Jake Liscow (@JakeLiscow) August 11, 2024
The multi-year starter at Wisconsin will get two more preseason opportunities before the Bengals must decide on their 53-man roster. The next chance comes on Saturday, Aug. 17 against the Chicago Bears.
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Story originally appeared on Badgers Wire