The Geno Atkins era in Cincinnati ended on Friday, with Bengals coach Zac Taylor announcing the release of the eight-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle.
Atkins, who turns 33 later this month, made the Hall of Fame’s All-Decade Team for the 2010s during his 11-year tenure in Cincinnati.
He was a first-team All-Pro in 2012 and 2015 and ranks second in franchise history with 75.5 sacks, trailing longtime teammate Carlos Dunlap (82.5).
Atkins ended the 2020 season on injured reserve due to a nagging shoulder injury sustained in training camp. He finished with just one tackle in eight games and was held without a sack for the first time in his career.
Releasing Atkins saves the Bengals $9.5 million against the 2021 salary cap, according to Spotrac.
A fourth-round pick in 2010, Atkins played in 161 games (134 starts) and registered 384 tackles, 172 quarterback hits, 100 tackles for loss and eight forced fumbles.
