Best Available Free Agents for Bengals
By jluff
Offensive Line: The offensive line seems primed to have an outstanding starting five. But without a backup Center or much depth at any position, especially with the retirement of Jacob Bell, should the Bengals add some depth to the O-Line?
OT Kareem McKenzie (NYG) – He won his second Super Bowl with the G-Men, but an eroding knee may keep him from most teams rosters. He would make an admirable backup but it is unclear if he’s willing to take the type of pay cut that would allow Cincinnati to sign him.
OT Marcus McNeil (SD) – Not a likely signing as he is likely to try to sign with a team where he can have a starting role from day one. He is a top 5 tackle when healthy, but he’s coming off of a long list of serious injuries. That being said he is still only 28 years old. Unless he is still unsigned through the first few games of the season and the Bengals have a tackle go down with a long term injury, this is an unlikely signing.
OT Max Starks (PIT) – A solid starter for years protecting Big Ben, but like the last two free agents, he will likely seek a starting role for his new team.
OG Vernon Carey (MIA) – Only allowed 3 sacks and did a good job opening up running lanes in Miami.
OG Eric Steinbach (CLE) – Ever since LT Joe Thomas came to town defenses have been piling up on Steinbach and the other offensive linemen. Throw that in with his recent injuries and Steinbach, once regarded as a top-tier offensive lineman, would likely take a backup role.
OG Jake Scott (TEN) – The other O-Lineman named Jake from Tennessee showed good skills in opening running lanes for RB Chris Johnson 2 years ago but struggled last season. Would add good depth in pass-protecting situations, possibly could rebound in run-blocking sets.
OG Kyle Kosier (DAL) – A mainstay on the O-Line for the Cowboys for years has opened up big holes for running backs like Felix Jones, Marion Barber III, Tashard Choice, Julius Jones. He would be a great veteran addition to the Bengals.
OG Montrae Holland (DAL) – Another Dallas free agent had a decent year until tearing his bicep last year. Still a young 32 yrs old could provide solid depth.
Other notables: OG Anthony Herrera (MIN), OG Derrick Dockery (DAL), OG Stacy Andrews (NYG), OT Tony Ugoh (NYG)