Dansby is on track to open the season as Cincinnati's starting SAM linebacker, the team's official website reports.

EDGE Analysis

With Vontaze Burfict suspended for four games and A.J. Hawk released Tuesday, the Bengals likely plan for Dansby and Vincent Rey to flank middle linebacker Rey Maualuga early in the season. 2015 third-round selection Paul Dawson should also be in the mix for snaps, but it's not out of the question that Dansby could earn a three-down role. The 34-year-old recently signed with Cincinnati on a one-year contract worth up to $2 million, with a $700,000 signing bonus, according to ESPN's Coley Harvey.