Dont Myer: The Unique Journey of the Bengals' New WR to the NFL

An Unconventional Path to the NFL Dont Myer, the 26-year-old wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, has a remarkable story on his road to the NFL. While most stars come from major colleges with high-profile draft pedigrees, Myer began his career at smaller schools. He first played at Presbyterian University, a relatively small academic institution with a football program that doesn’t get much exposure, before transferring to Delta State, a Division II school—one level below the top tier of college football.

This route made it difficult for him to get a coveted spot in the 2023 NFL Draft, where he went undrafted. Afterwards, he attended the Atlanta Falcons rookie camp but didn’t secure a contract there either. Meanwhile, Myer faced a tough reality—working as a DoorDash delivery driver to support himself while continuing to train for another shot. His story highlights the challenges players outside the traditional league pipeline often face.

Success in Canada and a New Opportunity Myer didn’t give up and pursued his professional career in the Canadian Football League (CFL), joining the Saskatchewan Roughriders. The CFL often serves as a second chance for players who didn’t get enough exposure in the U.S. In his first season in Canada, he showed potential with 24 receptions for 349 yards and one touchdown in just four games. The following season, Myer exploded with 65 catches, 1,056 yards, and eight touchdowns—an impressive leap.

His achievements directly contributed to the Roughriders winning the Grey Cup, the CFL’s most prestigious title. His success caught the eyes of NFL scouts, and in January 2024, he signed a reserve contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, giving him a fresh shot on the world’s top football stage.

Impressive Performances in Training Camp Since joining Cincinnati, Myer has made a very positive impression on the coaching staff. Head coach Zac Taylor praised Myer’s ability to stand out both as a wide receiver and as a return specialist, noting that the coaches don’t have to force opportunities his way. This speaks to his hard work and ability to exceed expectations.

In the most recent preseason game against the Detroit Lions, Myer led the team with three receptions for 29 yards. Beyond that, he contributed on a jet sweep with a 13-yard run and returned a punt for 11 yards, showcasing his versatility. The Bengals’ wide receiver group is one of the most competitive in the league, packed with experienced and talented players, so Myer’s ability to offer multiple roles is a significant advantage in the fight for a roster spot.

What This Means for the Team and Myer The Cincinnati Bengals, looking to deepen their offensive depth, could find a valuable asset in Myer. His ability to contribute on offense and special teams provides tactical flexibility and a critical edge in key moments. Moreover, his life story exemplifies the fighting spirit and determination needed to succeed in the NFL, the most demanding league in the world.

The battle for wide receiver spots on the Bengals roster is fierce, but Myer combines talent, perseverance, and versatility that could secure him a place. If he continues to perform well in training camp and the upcoming preseason games, he’s likely to earn a meaningful opportunity in the regular season and bolster the team’s offensive depth.

Myer is a prime example of a player who didn’t give up despite numerous obstacles, arriving after years of struggle and effort, now competing for a chance to become a significant NFL player—the ultimate dream for every American football athlete.