Ex-Bengals QB’s Son Confronts Past, Pursues NFL Ambitions
Jalen Kitna took the field at the Cincinnati Bengals’ local pro day this week. He wore the No. 3 jersey his father once wore with Cincinnati.
Local pro day and family ties
The workout drew a few dozen NFL hopefuls from the region. Kitna said the event felt special because of his family connection to the city and franchise.
He was told he watched his father throw at Paycor Stadium as a child. Jon Kitna once connected with receivers like Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh.
Legacy of Jon Kitna
Jon Kitna went undrafted out of Central Washington in 1997. He signed with the Seahawks and built a 14-year NFL career.
His professional totals included 124 starts, 29,745 passing yards, and 169 touchdowns. He also finished his career wearing No. 3 in Dallas.
College path and legal matter
Jalen originally committed to Boston College. He later signed with the University of Florida in 2021.
Florida released him in 2023 after a 2022 arrest. Prosecutors later dismissed the child pornography charges.
He pleaded guilty to two counts of breach of peace, his attorney said. A forensic review found the images were not consistent with child pornography.
“We feel good about that,” attorney Ron Kozlowski told reporters. He said the outcome gives Kitna an opportunity to move forward.
UAB performance and draft outlook
Kitna finished his college career at UAB. He started the last two seasons and completed 64.4 percent of his passes.
He threw 31 touchdowns and 21 interceptions for UAB. Scouts view him as a late-round or undrafted prospect.
The Athletic’s Dane Brugler lists him as the No. 33 quarterback in the class. Like his father, Kitna is expected to pursue opportunities as an undrafted free agent.
Pro day impressions and preparation
The Bengals’ local pro day session lasted roughly 30 to 40 minutes. Kitna said he tried to make every throw count.
He has been training with his father and living at home while preparing for the draft. He said he welcomed conversations with teams about his past and growth.
Next steps
Kitna recently turned 23 and plans to spend draft weekend with family. For undrafted players, interest often comes quickly after the draft ends.
“I’m ready for whatever opportunity comes my way,” he said. As an Ex-Bengals QB’s son, Kitna confronts past issues while he pursues NFL ambitions.
