Recently-signed Bengals cornerback Bene Benwikere has had an interesting three year journey in the NFL. He started out with the Panthers in 2014 and also spent time with the Dolphins and Packers in 2016. Now, after working out for a few teams this offseason, he opted to sign with the Bengals. He’ll compete with a very talented group of cornerbacks for a spot on the Bengals’ 53-man roster in 2017, and he’s embracing the opportunity.
So, let’s get to know the newest member of the team!
Benwikere has a huge family! Here they are on draft day when Benwikere was selected by the Panthers in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
He graduated from San Jose State and, he actually went to high school at Junípero Serra High School in Gardena, California where many pro athletes have attended high school. Deon Figures (Steelers 1993 first round draft pick), Duke Ihenacho (Redskins safety), Marqise Lee (Jaguars wide receiver), Kris Richard (Seahawks defensive backs coach) and Robert Woods (Bills receiver) are just a few of the many notable athletic alumni from the school. Hip hop artist Montell Jordan also attended the school.
He’s a family man.
Benwikere enjoys hanging out with local youth.
And, giving back to the community.
Had a blast with the @BGClubCab kids today! Thanks to @academy for letting me host the back to school shopping event pic.twitter.com/yjiWgG6REL
— Bené Benwikere (@BigPlayBene) July 26, 2016
Thanks to @Academy for having @BigPlayBene out for the Back to School Shopping spree. Great partnership! pic.twitter.com/Lq80gzovWr
— The Level ONE Agency (@TheLevelONE) July 26, 2016
@BigPlayBene of the NFL's Panthers giving back to kids @HayesPullard youth football camp in Los Angeles, CA. Thanks pic.twitter.com/ELiG7nepTO
— All-American U (@AllAmericanU) July 19, 2016
He has an adorable, little son.
He likes riding horses:
He formed a bond with his fellow Panthers defensive backs.
He was on the Panthers’ 2015 Super Bowl team, but, didn’t play in the game due to a broken leg.
Thank you @NFL for our third #SBHonorRoll ball. Also big thank you @BigPlayBene and here's to a great 2016. pic.twitter.com/7sydokGrGc
— Serra Athletics (@serrasports) June 7, 2016
Benwikere also got to meet Warriors all-star Steph Curry at a Hornets-Warriors game in 2015.
And... Kobe Bryant, too.
That same night he also met Lakers guard Nick Young, who like Benwikere, is from California.
He’s also a magician... sort of.
Got to do a cool trick for my birthday yesterday pic.twitter.com/s1QJYlmzcl
— Bené Benwikere (@BigPlayBene) September 4, 2016
After getting released after Week 4 during the 2016 season by the Panthers, Benwikere signed with the Dolphins.
And now with the Bengals, Benwikere is still determined to succeed.
Hopefully, he’ll find the success he’s seeking in Cincinnati as he competes for a spot on the Bengals’ 2017 53-man roster.
Today is a good day
— Bené Benwikere (@BigPlayBene) February 14, 2017