Iowa Hawkeyes Alum Erick All Jr. Cleared for Bengals Training Camp
Former Iowa Hawkeyes tight end Erick All Jr. has been given the green light for full activity ahead of Cincinnati Bengals training camp, a major boost for both the player and the team. Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin confirmed the news, signaling a potential comeback story for the 2024 fourth-round draft pick who missed the entire 2025 season with a torn ACL.
All, who transferred to Iowa for his final collegiate season in 2023, caught 21 passes for 299 yards and three touchdowns in just seven games with the Hawkeyes. His NFL career was cut short in November 2024 when he suffered the ACL injury during his rookie season, limiting him to nine games where he recorded 20 catches for 158 yards.
What This Means for the Bengals Offense
Cincinnati is rebuilding after a tough 2025 campaign, with significant roster changes on defense. But the offense, led by quarterback Joe Burrow, is looking to regain its dominance. All's return adds a versatile weapon. He is considered a more complete tight end than some of his competition, offering both pass-catching ability and blocking skills. This could give the Bengals a well-rounded element they have lacked in recent years.
“He can stretch the field and bring toughness after the catch,” one team insider noted. “His blocking needs work, but he has shown the ability to do damage.”
Competition for Playing Time
All will compete for snaps against veterans Mike Gesicki, Drew Sample, and Tanner Hudson. While playing time may be hard to come by, a full training camp and preseason give him a real chance to impress the coaching staff. The Bengals have a progression plan in place to ease him back into game shape, a smart move given his injury history at Michigan and Iowa.
Iowa Ties and Local Interest
For Iowa fans, All's journey is a point of pride. The Hawkeyes have a strong tradition of producing NFL talent, and seeing a former standout like All overcome adversity resonates deeply. If he stays healthy, he could be a key piece in Cincinnati's push for a playoff return, their first since 2022.
All's story is one of resilience. From battling injuries at Michigan to a standout season at Iowa, he now has a chance to become a breakout star for the Bengals. The team has Super Bowl hopes, and All could play a bigger role than many expect.
Looking Ahead
Training camp opens soon, and all eyes will be on All as he ramps up. For Iowa Hawkeyes fans and Bengals supporters alike, this is a comeback worth watching. If he can stay on the field, Erick All Jr. might just be the missing piece Cincinnati needs.