Former Howard Standout Lands Major NFL Deal with Bengals

HBCU Superstar Signs Three-Year, $42 Million Contract with Cincinnati

The first day of NFL free agency has been a big one for the HBCU community, as a former Howard University standout has earned a lucrative payday with a previous playoff foe. Entering his fifth professional season, defensive back Bryan Cook is making the move from the Kansas City Chiefs to the Cincinnati Bengals, signing a three-year, $42 million contract with the team.

Cook began his collegiate career at Howard in 2017, playing two seasons with the Bison before transferring to the University of Cincinnati. He was then selected by the Chiefs in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft and has spent his first four years in the league with the AFC West champions.

During his time in Kansas City, the former Howard standout helped contribute to two Super Bowl-winning teams, making a game-defining play in the 2022 AFC Championship game that propelled his team to victory.

After missing Kansas City's playoff run in 2023 due to a season-ending ankle injury, Cook established himself as the team's full-time starter at free safety. He started all 17 games in each of the last two seasons, recording 78 tackles and two interceptions in 2024.

Now, Cook will join a Cincinnati defense that struggled mightily last season, ranking 30th in scoring defense and 31st in total defense. The Bengals are hoping the former HBCU standout can help shore up their secondary and provide a much-needed boost to their struggling unit.

"Bryan Cook is a proven playmaker who has shown he can make a difference at the highest level. His success with the Chiefs, and now this lucrative deal with the Bengals, is a tremendous source of pride for the HBCU community. We're excited to see him continue to thrive in the NFL and represent Howard University and the entire HBCU ecosystem."

- HBCUConnect.com Editorial Team

Originally reported by HBCU Sports.