Demetrius Knight II is a dynamic linebacker for the Cincinnati Bengals, selected in the second round (49th overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft. Standing 6'2" and weighing 247 pounds, Knight hails from Locust Grove, Georgia. He began his collegiate career at Georgia Tech, where he played in 36 games over four seasons, recording 51 tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss, and 1.0 sack. In 2022, he transferred to Charlotte, leading the team with 96 tackles and earning First Team All-American Athletic Conference honors. Knight then spent his final season at South Carolina, where he was named a team captain and earned multiple accolades, including the Joe Morrison MVP for defense. In 2024, he recorded 82 tackles, 8.0 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, and three forced fumbles, showcasing his leadership and versatility on the field.
Knight's exceptional performance in his final season at South Carolina highlighted his readiness for the NFL. He demonstrated remarkable consistency, recording at least five tackles in every game and achieving double-digit tackles in three contests. His standout moments included a game-winning interception against Clemson and a dominant performance in the Citrus Bowl, where he forced a fumble on the goal line. His ability to impact the game in various facets—ranging from tackling to pass coverage—has made him a promising addition to the Bengals' defense. Knight's journey from a dual-threat quarterback in high school to a standout linebacker in college reflects his adaptability and commitment to excellence.
