Still a free agent, a veteran ready to “fix problems” in the NFL

Kyle Van Noy, a two-time Super Bowl champion and NFL veteran with more than a decade of experience, remains a free agent heading into the 2026 season, despite recent developments that suggested there would be strong interest in his services.

The 35-year-old linebacker had, however, put together an impressive season in 2024 with the Baltimore Ravens, recording a career-high 12.5 sacks in 16 games, which earned him his first Pro Bowl selection at the age of 33. That performance served as a reminder that he could still play an important role on a defensive unit.

However, his production dropped off in 2025, with just two sacks in 15 games—his lowest total since 2016. Despite this, Van Noy still has a career total of 57 sacks, spread across 12 NFL seasons with the Detroit Lions, New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Chargers, and Ravens.

Drafted 40th overall in 2014 out of BYU, he particularly shone in Baltimore, where he recorded 23.5 sacks over three seasons.

“I'm a player who fixes problems”

Appearing on the “Up & Adams Show” on FanDuel TV, Van Noy made no secret of his ambitions for the next chapter of his career. He specifically mentioned the Cincinnati Bengals as a possible destination, while heaping praise on quarterback Joe Burrow.

“When you play against him, you realize he's one of the top three quarterbacks in the league,” he said. “If you know, you know. That's the guy.”

The veteran also summed up his potential role on a future team with a statement that sparked a reaction: “I'm not part of anyone's long-term plan. I'm a stopgap player. I come in to solve problems.”

The Bengals seem to have already moved on

Despite his public interest in Cincinnati, the current situation doesn't bode well for a potential deal. The Bengals have been very active in restructuring their defensive unit, notably by strengthening their line at multiple positions.

The organization let Trey Hendrickson go, replacing him with Boye Mafe, then acquired Dexter Lawrence via trade, in addition to drafting Cashius Howell after a season in which he recorded 11.5 sacks at Texas A&M. Added to this are the young prospects Myles Murphy and Shemar Stewart.

With an already deep rotation and a rebuilt defensive roster, there appears to be limited room for a veteran like Van Noy, despite his experience and his production, which he has continued to demonstrate recently.

As training camp approaches in late July, Kyle Van Noy may have to wait a while before finding a new home. As is often the case with veterans in the NFL, a late signing remains a realistic option, especially for a team seeking depth and experience during the season.

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