The New England Patriots are bidding farewell to cornerback Marco Wilson, who was claimed off waivers by the Cincinnati Bengals on Tuesday. The move ends Wilson’s brief tenure with the Patriots, where he served as a valuable depth piece in the team’s secondary.
Wilson, originally a 2021 fourth-round pick by the Arizona Cardinals, joined New England late in the 2023 season. While he didn’t lock down a starting role, he became a key rotational player, often splitting snaps with veteran Jonathan Jones. Most recently, he featured in the Patriots’ game against the Los Angeles Rams, where he allowed two catches for 46 yards to Puka Nacua.
The Bengals claimed Wilson in the wake of significant injuries to their cornerback corps. Already down starting safety Dax Hill, Cincinnati also lost cornerback DJ Turner to a season-ending injury. Wilson now joins a Bengals team on a bye week but in desperate need of reinforcements as they prepare for a critical stretch of the season.
In his NFL career, the 25-year-old Wilson has played in 54 games, starting 37. Over that span, he has recorded three interceptions, 19 passes defensed, and three forced fumbles. This season with the Patriots, Wilson appeared in 10 games, contributing 15 tackles and a single pass defensed.
Patriots fans are understandably disappointed to see Wilson depart, as his versatility and experience added valuable depth to the secondary. However, the move reflects the team’s confidence in their current roster and the organization’s willingness to give Wilson an opportunity elsewhere.
The Bengals, meanwhile, hope Wilson can step in and provide immediate stability to a depleted secondary. With playoff aspirations still within reach, they are banking on Wilson’s experience and athleticism to help fill the void.
For Wilson, this move marks a new chapter in his career. Bengals fans will be eager to see how he adjusts and contributes to their defense in the weeks ahead.
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