A former Penn State wide receiver is turning heads this preseason — and in the process has made a strong impression on one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL.
Mitchell Tinsley spent one season with the Nittany Lions. The former Hutchinson Community College and Western Kentucky standout transferred to Penn State ahead of the 2022 campaign and helped James Franklin’s program to a 11-win season and a Rose Bowl victory.
Now, Tinsley is making his case to earn a roster spot with the Cincinnati Bengals.
After two years on the Washington Commanders’ practice squad, Tinsley signed with Cincinnati and has seriously impressed this preseason.
On Monday, the 25-year-old caught five passes for 73 yards, including two leaping touchdown grabs, in Cincinnati’s win over Washington.
ESPN, which was televising the game, interviewed Cincinnati quarterback Joe Burrow on the sidelines. The two-time Pro Bowl selection and 2024 passing yards leader heaped praise on Tinsley — and basically lobbied for the receiver to make the Bengals’ 53-man roster.
“That guy’s made plays all camp. I’m really happy for him. Hopefully he secured a spot,” Burrow said. “He’s a guy that you can count on. He’s a smart guy and knows all the positions. A guy you can trust like that is very valuable.”
Burrow and the Bengals have a pair of top-notch receivers in JaMarr Chase and Tee Higgins. But after Monday’s performance — and Burrow’s endorsement — Tinsley has to feel good about his chances to make Cincinnati’s roster.
Tinsley was Penn State’s No. 2 receiver behind Parker Washington in 2022. The Missouri native racked up 51 catches for 577 yards and five touchdowns.
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