Mitchell Tinsley’s Breakout Performance Puts Bengals Receiver in Roster Spotlight

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Mitchell Tinsley has emerged as one of the most compelling stories of the NFL preseason, culminating in a spectacular performance against his former team, the Washington Commanders. In a Monday night showcase, Tinsley caught five passes for 73 yards and two impressive touchdowns, making a powerful statement in his bid for a spot on the 53-man roster.

The performance caught the attention of the national broadcast crew. “Have a night, Mitchell Tinsley!” exclaimed ESPN’s Joe Buck after Tinsley’s second score. Analyst Troy Aikman added, “This guy, he’s shown that he can play in the National Football League tonight.” According to Buck, when head coach Zac Taylor was asked which backup receiver had stood out, “the first name he said is Mitch Tinsley.”

This standout game was the culmination of a training camp filled with highlight-reel catches and consistent execution. Tinsley, who signed with the Bengals on a reserve/future contract on February 4, 2025, has been turning heads since practices began. His efforts earned praise from quarterback Joe Burrow early in camp, and he has built a strong rapport with backup quarterback Jake Browning, who threw both of his touchdown passes against Washington. “He’s had a real good camp,” Browning said. “He’s got really good releases, does a good job catching the 50-50 balls… He’s pretty locked in.”

Tinsley’s journey to this point has been one of perseverance. Born September 15, 1999, he went undrafted out of Penn State in 2023 and signed with the Washington Commanders. He made the initial 53-man roster as a rookie and appeared in two games. However, in 2024, he spent the entire season on the Commanders’ practice squad. Washington did not offer him a futures contract, opening the door for Cincinnati to sign him.

Rather than viewing the game against Washington as a revenge match, Tinsley has focused on his mental preparation. He spent the offseason studying sports psychology to sharpen his mindset. “I always knew I could play. What I’m doing here is no surprise to me,” Tinsley told Bengals.com. “It was more mental. Not letting outside factors affect my mindset… Controlling what I can control and being in the moment.”

His path through college football showcased his adaptability and production. After two years at Hutchinson Community College, Tinsley transferred to Western Kentucky, where he had a breakout season in 2021, recording 87 receptions for 1,402 yards and 14 touchdowns, earning second-team All-C-USA honors. He then transferred to Penn State for his final collegiate season in 2022, where he posted 51 catches for 577 yards and five touchdowns.

The challenge for Tinsley is cracking a deep and talented Bengals wide receiver room. The group is headlined by stars Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, with promising young players like Andrei Iosivas, Charlie Jones, and Jermaine Burton also in the mix. To enhance his value, Tinsley has been a dedicated contributor on special teams, playing on every unit to prove he can contribute in multiple phases of the game.

As the preseason winds down, Tinsley has done everything possible to state his case. His combination of reliable hands, sharp route-running, and a determined mindset has transformed him from a camp surprise into a serious contender for a roster spot. His performance against his old team was not just a highlight; it was a clear signal that he belongs in the NFL.