The Cincinnati Bengals re-signed tight end Drew Sample to a three-year extension, the team announced Monday.
Terms were not disclosed, but a source told ESPN's Ben Baby that the contract is worth $10.5 million. Sample was set to become an unrestricted free agent.
Sample emerged as Bengals' top tight-end option in 2023, starting eight of the team's final 10 games and catching 22 passes for 163 yards and a career-high two touchdowns.
His 22-yard touchdown reception in Week 9 was his first score since 2020.
Throughout his tenure with the Bengals, Sample, who turns 28 on April 16, has been known for his run blocking, but he became the primary blocker for third-down passing situations -- a job that typically goes to a running back. His ability to do "all those dirty jobs" earned praise from coach Zac Taylor toward the end of the season.
Sample, a 2019 second-round pick, was coming off a torn ACL in his right knee that he suffered on Sept. 18 of the 2022 season. In 61 games with the Bengals, he's made 25 starts and has 80 catches for 621 yards.