Former Texas standout Joseph Ossai likely out for rookie season with Bengals

Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Joseph Ossai started off his career with a bang, sacking Tom Brady in his first career NFL preseason game. Unfortunately, it may be the only highlight from the former Texas standout’s first-year in the NFL.

This morning, it was reported that Ossai is scheduled to undergo knee surgery this week for a torn meniscus, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The injury is believed to be season-ending. 

In his debut, Ossai did more than simply sack a quarterback with seven Super Bowl rings. Additionally, the former Longhorns had five QB pressures in total.

After generating potential buzz to be drafted as high as the first round of the NFL Draft, Ossai fell into the Bengals’ laps in the third round. Last season at Texas, Ossai set a career high in sacks with 5.5 in just 9 games. While his numbers weren’t gaudy, his athleticism and potential drew eyes to him throughout the process.

Joseph Ossai’s story was just beginning, and the hype train will have to return to the tracks at a later date.

The Bengals have had hard luck with injuries to promising draft picks. Famously, their quarterback Joe Burrow tore his ACL last season. As he works his way back from a knee injury, Ossai starts his journey.

Cincinnati Bengals sign Noah Spence

In light of the disappointing news, the Bengals signed Noah Spence as a corresponding move, added Pelissero. Spence was drafted in the second round by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2016, and has accumulated 7.5 sacks in his career.

Recently, Spence was released by the New Orleans Saints in a move on Aug. 16th. Furthermore, the defensive end hasn’t appeared in an NFL game since 2019 with the Washington Football Team, a season where he played just seven games.

Ironically, Spence is working his way back from a devastating knee injury. The former second round pick tore his ACL in May of 2020, and subsequently missed the entire season. He was re-signed by the Saints this past offseason, but then released earlier this week.

Moreover, Spence is returning to Ohio to play football. Once upon a time, the defensive end was a member of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Following multiple failed drug tests, he was ruled ineligible by the Big Ten.

Following the ruling, Spence transferred to Eastern Kentucky, where he played one season prior to entering the NFL Draft.

Now, Spence joins a unit featuring defensive ends like Sam Hubbard and Trey Hendrickson. The former Eastern Kentucky defensive end is familiar with Hendrickson, as he posted 13.5 sacks with the Saints just last season.

Time will tell if Joseph Ossai can realize his potential coming back from injury. However, one ripple effect is it gives Spence an opportunity to revive his NFL career in Cincinnati.