By now, it isn’t much of a secret that undrafted wide receiver Damion Willis has wrapped up a spot on the final 53 for the Cincinnati Bengals.
Willis has repeatedly succeeded when challenged this offseason, the latest example starting with the ones during the third preseason game and responding with three catches for 55 yards and a score.
Head coach Zac Taylor, speaking with the media after the game, once again hit Willis with praise:
“Damion has been an ascending player all camp. It’s never been too big for him. He’s an undrafted free agent from Troy. He was on Last Chance U four years ago. This moment has not been too big for him. It’s been exciting watching that guy compete. We gave him an opportunity tonight, and he more that held his own against the starting defense. We’ve been encouraged by what we’ve seen so far.”
Willis has been on the receiving end of praise for the duration of the summer. He’s standing out not only by making plays, but as a blocker.
Given his impressive summer, Willis has a spot on the 53 seemingly regardless of A.J. Green’s status — his ascension has dampened the roster chances for guys like Cody Core and Josh Malone.
Willis isn’t the only back-end receiver making noise. Auden Tate is excelling situationally again and fellow undrafted Stanley Morgan looks worth rostering.
But when it comes to surprises for former longshots, nobody stands taller than Willis.
