Hill was playing well before being injured in Week Five last season, but exercising the option guarantees him $12.682 million for the 2026 season and that requires a leap of faith that Hill will make it all the way back.

The Cincinnati Bengals have exercised their fifth-year option on cornerback Dax Hill, putting him under contract through the 2026 season.

The Bengals double down on a first-round investment by keeping a versatile defensive back in Cincinnati for at least one more season.