Payton Thorne has to likely find a new home if he wants his football career to continue for the 2025 season.
The former Auburn quarterback went undrafted, but signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, trying to earn a spot as Joe Burrow's backup or third-string quarterback. On Monday, Thorne was one of 11 players cut by the AFC North team.
In his time on the field in the final preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts, Thorne finished 4-of-7 for 41 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions.
After transferring from Michigan State before the 2023 season, Thorne spent two seasons as Auburn's starting quarterback, compiling an 11-13 record as a starter while throwing for 4,468 yards and 37 touchdowns with 19 interceptions.
Now placed on waivers, Thorne could sign with the Bengals' practice squad if no other team takes a chance on the Illinois native.
Bengals waived 11 players:
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 25, 2025
🏈DT McTelvin Agim
🏈CB Nate Brooks
🏈WR Cole Burgess
🏈HB Quali Conley
🏈S Shaquan Loyal
🏈WR Rashod Owens
🏈C Andrew Raym
🏈CB Lance Robinson
🏈G Andrew Stueber
🏈QB Payton Thorne
🏈LB Craig Young
They also released veteran DT Taven Bryan.