Who Should I Start? Daxton Hill or Damarri Mathis

Tuesday, April 29, 3:00 PM

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Cincinnati Bengals are picking up the fifth-year option on defensive back Dax Hill. This locks Hill into a projected $12.7 million salary for 2026. The former first-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Michigan has played in 37 games (24 starts) for the Bengals, compiling 151 tackles (103 solo), two interceptions, 13 pass deflections, 2.5 sacks, and seven tackles for loss. Despite Hill suffering a torn ACL in Week 5 of the 2024 campaign, the organization is clearly optimistic about his recovery and potential in the future.

Sunday, August 25, 6:46 PM

Denver Broncos defensive back Damarri Mathis (ankle) was removed early during Sunday's preseason finale against the Arizona Cardinals. Mathis had to be carted off the field after suffering what looked to be a bad ankle injury during Sunday's game. The assumption is that the Broncos will have Mathis undergo further testing to determine the severity of the injury. At the moment, it's uncertain if Mathis will be ready to play in the regular season opener. That being said, Riley Moss would likely be the next man up to start alongside Patrick Surtain, assuming Mathis misses time. The absence of Mathis would certainly be a hit to the Broncos secondary.