The Bengals today re-signed DT Devon Still, who entered the free agent ranks last week when his former Cincinnati contract expired.
Still (6-5, 310; Penn State) is a fourth-year NFL player in 2015. He has played in 30 Bengals games since being drafted by Cincinnati in 2012. Last season he played in 12 games, logging 19 tackles, though his primary responsibility was caring for his daughter, Leah, who was diagnosed last spring with pediatric cancer.
Still said his decision to re-sign for 2015 was driven by recent medical tests that show Leah’s condition to be significantly improved. Leah is to turn five years old in May.
“Now that it looks like things are headed on the right path, I’m ready to go back and play football,” Still said.
“It’s great to have Devon back with us,” said Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis. “We know it has been a very difficult journey for him the last year. Devon remains focused on Leah’s recovery and on furthering his NFL career, and we’re excited to be able to provide that opportunity.”
Still last year became a nationally sought spokesperson for the struggles of families affected by childhood cancer. The Bengals teamed with Still and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center to raise funds through sales of Still’s No. 75 jersey. Nearly 15,000 jerseys were sold, leading to a $1.3 million Bengals donation to Cincinnati Children’s for pediatric cancer research.
