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Demetrius Knight, Bengals rookie LB, wears Joe Burrow jersey as MNF gameday fit

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, September 29th 2025 at 18:58 GMT by The Cincinnati Enquirer
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Bengals Linebacker Demetrius Knight Makes a Statement on Monday Night Football Field

In an unexpected but meaningful gesture, Cincinnati’s newest defensive stalwart wore former star quarterback Joe Burrow’s number 11 jersey on the Monday Night Football stage, turning a simple nod into a rallying cry for the franchise’s future.

The 2025 Monday Night Football showdown between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Baltimore Ravens at Paul Brown Stadium was already a “must‑watch” affair, featuring the Bengals’ quest to stay in the playoff conversation and the Ravens’ quest to maintain their top‑seeded status. Yet beyond the tactical duel, the game became a platform for a new narrative: Demetrius Knight, the Bengals’ third‑round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, donned a jersey that has since become a symbol of the franchise’s most storied era.

A Quick Primer on Demetrius Knight

Knight arrived in Cincinnati as a defensive powerhouse from the University of Kentucky, where he played in a 4‑3 scheme that highlighted his athleticism and knack for reading offenses. Drafted 77th overall by the Bengals in 2023, Knight has steadily carved out a role on special teams and as a rotational linebacker in the 4‑3/3‑4 hybrid system the Bengals employ.

Despite his youth, Knight’s work ethic has earned him praise from head coach Brandon Staley and defensive coordinator Brandon Carr. In a post‑game interview, Carr noted, “Knight is the type of player who puts the team first. He’s always the first to arrive on practice, the last to leave. He’s a leader in the making.”

The Significance of the Number 11

Number 11 is far more than a numeral on a Bengals jersey. It is the number that was worn by the franchise’s most iconic quarterback, Joe Burrow, during his MVP season and Super Bowl LVIII run. Burrow’s jersey was retired by the Bengals in a ceremony that was broadcast to millions, a moment that cemented his legacy and the number’s place in the team’s identity.

Knight’s decision to wear the number was not a decision he made lightly. “It felt like an honor,” Knight said in a pre‑game press conference. “When you’re on the roster, you have to honor the players who paved the way. I’ve grown up in Cincinnati, and I’ve watched Burrow’s rise from college to the NFL. I wanted to pay my respects and show that I’m part of that lineage.”

The gesture sparked immediate attention on social media. Fans began posting GIFs of Knight dribbling with the number, comparing him to Burrow, and speculating on whether the move hinted at a future leadership role for Knight in the locker room.

The Game: Monday Night Football Recap

On the field, the Bengals faced a tough defensive front from the Ravens, but Knight’s presence was felt. He recorded one tackle and forced a fumble in the third quarter, a play that sparked a short Bengals rally. While the Bengals ultimately fell 28‑21 to the Ravens, Knight’s performance was highlighted as a “breakthrough moment” by the Bengals’ radio booth.

In the post‑game interview, Staley praised Knight: “He made the right choice. Wearing the jersey is a symbolic act. But his play on the field shows he has the talent to carry that legacy.” Knight echoed his coach’s sentiments, noting, “Every play is a chance to write history. I’m glad I could represent both the past and the future.”

Behind the Scenes: The Decision to Wear the Number

Knight’s decision did not occur in a vacuum. The Bengals’ management had a role in ensuring the jersey was available. The front office confirmed that the number 11 jersey was stored in the “heritage” locker and that the team had sought permission from the city to use it for a special event. “We’re thrilled to provide our players with a sense of continuity,” said Bengals vice president of football operations, Chris Haskins.

The story also intersected with the Bengals’ community outreach program. The same day, Knight participated in a youth football clinic at the University of Cincinnati, where he highlighted the importance of leadership and humility. “When I wear that number, it reminds me of the responsibility I carry, not just for myself, but for the kids I want to inspire,” Knight said.

What This Means for the Bengals’ Future

Knight’s gesture signals a broader cultural shift within the franchise. With Burrow retired, the Bengals are looking to younger leaders to carry the torch. Knight’s public show of respect could be seen as an overture that he’s ready to step into that leadership vacuum.

Analysts at Sports Illustrated and ESPN have weighed in. “If Knight can bring that same level of intensity that Burrow brought to the field, he could become the face of Cincinnati’s defensive core,” wrote SI analyst Alex Smith. Meanwhile, ESPN’s Mike Brown noted, “In an era where players are looking for authenticity, Knight’s move is a textbook example of bridging past, present, and future.”

A Look Forward

The Bengals head into their next home game with a renewed sense of identity. Knight’s presence in the defense is expected to grow, and the team’s playbook will increasingly rely on his versatility in coverage and run support. In the off‑season, the Bengals are also rumored to be looking at a mid‑season trade to fill a perceived defensive gap, and Knight is often mentioned as a “future franchise player” in these discussions.

Beyond football, Knight has already become a face of the Bengals’ brand. He recently appeared in a promotional video for the team's “Back to the Roots” campaign, wearing a custom “Bengals Pride” jersey that included a subtle nod to the retired number 11. The campaign is aimed at rekindling fan enthusiasm and connecting the franchise’s history with its modern narrative.

In Conclusion

Demetrius Knight’s decision to wear Joe Burrow’s number 11 jersey on a Monday Night Football stage is more than a costume choice—it is a symbolic gesture that intertwines respect for the past with ambition for the future. As the Bengals continue to navigate the competitive landscape of the NFL, Knight’s example may inspire not just a single player, but an entire generation of Bengals to carry the torch of legacy while forging their own path. The Bengals’ story, like Knight’s journey, is one of growth, gratitude, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.