Bengals claim Deion ‘Shaq’ Calhoun

The Cincinnati Bengals have claimed offensive guard Deion ‘Shaq’ Calhoun off waivers, according to Ian Rapoport. This proceeds Cincinnati’s move to waive offensive guard Alex Redmond.

Calhoun, who weighs in at 6-3 and 310 pounds, appeared in 10 games (7 starts) at right guard for the Dolphins last season. He signed with Miami as an undrafted free agent in 2019 following a standout career at Mississippi State. He finished 2019 with a 44.7 Pro Football Focus grade.

While Calhoun may not be someone you want starting right now, he did have some bright moments last year, he tested well athletically, and he’s just 24 years old, so the Bengals may think they can mold him into a more effective lineman over time.

By waiving Redmond earlier, the Bengals save $2.1 million against the cap. Calhoun will cost under $1 million to claim.

Looking ahead, Calhoun figures to be a backup for both guard spots and could end up starting if Michael Jordan struggles again and/or journeyman Xavier Su’a-Filo does the same.