Cincinnati Bengals: 5 Free Agents Left to Target

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Nov 29, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals outside linebacker A.J. Hawk (50) talks with St. Louis Rams middle linebacker James Laurinaitis (55) after the game at Paul Brown Stadium. The Bengals won 31-7. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

LB: James Laurinaitis

Fans of the Ohio State Buckeyes already know James Laurinaitis for his hard nose style and tracking ability of ball carriers on defense. However, the Bengals know him for the nine tackles he recorded against them in week 12 and 109 tackles on the season.

Laurinaitis has visited the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons since being cut by the St. Louis (Now L.A.) Rams. His production of three tackles for loss, 109 tackles, one forced fumble, and one interception leaves people scratching their heads as to why the Rams ultimately parted ways, outside of money of course.

Laurinaitis has 10 interceptions since joining the league in 2009, along with 852 tackles, two forced fumbles, eight fumble recoveries, and 36 tackles for a loss. The Bengals re-signed Vincent Rey but with Vontaze Burfict out and the uncertainty behind Rey Maualuga and A.J. Hawk, along with the loss of Emmanuel Lamur, James Laurinaitis would be an immediate upgrade and even replacement for Maualuga.

Laurinatis could come with a slight cost but if he provides the same boost to the Bengals as he did with the Rams, it would be money well spent. Not to mention, he would help slow down Le’Veon Bell in their match up against the Steelers.

Next: Courting Finnegan