Cincinnati Bengals: 3 Targets a Week Before Free Agency Opens
It’s no secret the Bengals heavily value the corner position. After watching offensive juggernauts air it out year after year, the front office wisely attempts to slow these passing attacks by investing significantly in the unit via the draft. Things should be no different in free agency.
The team has William Jackson III, who although had a shaky 2019 season, has superstar potential and generally plays at a high level. There’s the ascending Darius Phillips on the roster as well.
Beyond those two, things aren’t as clear. Darqueze Dennard had a great season ago and every effort should be made to bring him back in free agency. However, his return is no sure thing. In addition, long time starter Dre Kirkpatrick may become a cap casualty, as his $12 million cap hit is a large sum to pay.
The defense will need at least four solid corners if they want to make it through a full slate of games in the NFL. Signing Eli Apple may be the best way to achieve this goal at a reasonable price.
Apple, a former first-round pick, hasn’t lived up to his draft billing yet but has shown flashes. In an up and down season with the Saints, he showed the skills that caused him to be the 10th overall pick. He also had instances that explained why the Giants decided to trade him to New Orleans.
If the Bengals can get him to play more consistently, they’ll have hit a home run, acquiring a good young player at one of the most important positions. Perhaps sharing a field with defensive backs like Jackson and Jessie Bates can help him reach his full potential.
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If the front office can negotiate the right contract, the risk-reward of Apple may be too good to pass up.