The Cincinnati Bengals made waves on Monday by releasing backup quarterback Mike White from their practice squad, a move that has sparked intense speculation about the team’s plans at the position. With franchise star Joe Burrow sidelined indefinitely due to a toe injury and current starter Jake Browning failing to inspire confidence, fans on X asked the organization to pursue for a replacement in the form of Jameis Winston.
Bengals released QB Mike White from their practice squad.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 7, 2025
“Better be to go get Winston….,” a fan said.
“Please for the love of my Freaking SANITY go get Winston. Please man,” another fan said.
“WINSTON BEING ADDED!?!” a fan commented in anticipation on Winston’s potential addition to the roster.
“Why isn’t Jameis Winston on this football team??” a fan remarked.
“Room being made for a QB trade? Jameis Winston rumors heating up Bengals need a spark with Browning struggling,” a fan commented.
“Jameis is coming,” another fan added.
Breaking🚨
The #Bengals have released QB, Mike White.
This opens up a spot for the Bengals to make a move at acquiring a QB. Jameis Winston is the top target with real potential of a trade happening, per sources. pic.twitter.com/YYIztdNQlk
— Larry Foster (@LarryFosterNFL) October 7, 2025
Adam Schefter broke the news of White’s departure on X, while NFL insider Larry Foster added fuel to the fire by reporting that Winston has emerged as the Bengals’ primary target. Foster indicated that real potential exists for a trade to materialize in the coming days, though no official negotiations have been confirmed by either organization.
Bengals Struggle After Promising Start Raises Concerns
Cincinnati is in desperate need of some urgency. After a solid beginning to the season, it is now 2-3 after losing three games in a row. The Bengals most recently suffered a 37-24 loss to the Detroit Lions on Sunday, which revealed some serious issues regarding their offense.
The thought of Winston finding his way to Cincinnati is appealing for both sides. While he has been buried on the depth chart behind Russell Wilson and rookie Jaxson Dart, Winston, at 31 years old, has publicly said that he believes he is a starting quarterback. And his resume suggests that he would be capable of stepping in and playing well.
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