One of the fan favorites’ time has come to an end in the Jungle.
It feels like a lifetime ago when the Cincinnati Bengals shook up the AFC North by bringing in former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Mike Hilton.
Hilton sent shockwaves through the division after signing a four-year deal with the Bengals and lived up to the hype, plus some. He became a fan favorite with his play on the field and passion for the community as well.
With the massive investment in young secondary talent in recent years, it was written on the wall that Hilton would not be returning in 2025.
Although it was expected, it doesn’t make the goodbye any easier for Hilton and Bengals fans…
Hilton officially said his goodbye via social media, and the responses show the true impact 21 made to the fanbase.
A leader and important piece for the #Bengals secondary during his time in Cincinnati. An excellent free agent signing back in 2021 and easy guy to root for. All the best to Mike Hilton. pic.twitter.com/Hk3Tob3nG8
— BENGALS TALK (@BengalsTalk) July 23, 2025
Hilton tallied six interceptions and 283 tackles on the stat sheet, but his impact can’t be expressed enough with his presence in the locker room and downhill tackling.
We will see his next landing spot, but it is nothing but absolute love for Hilton and best of luck to him and his family in their next chapter of life!
Who Dey forever, 21.