The Cincinnati Bengals spent big on cornerback Trae Waynes in free agency this past offseason.
He has yet to suit up this season — and won’t.
Earlier this week, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor confirmed Waynes won’t be activated to close the season. Meaning, the Bengals threw a three-year deal worth $42 million at him and won’t have anything to show for it.
Waynes was signed to be the starter opposite William Jackson, but that never materialized after the former Minnesota Vikings starter suffered an injury while training before camp opened. He needed surgery to fix the issue.
At this point, it wouldn’t make sense for the Bengals to activate Waynes even if he were ready. He’s a seasoned veteran and three games of work in a lost season wouldn’t amount to much.
Like most of the injured players right now — highlighted by Joe Mixon’s status in limbo — the Bengals hope to have a fully healthy Waynes ready to go next season.
