Bengals mock offseason: Projecting free agency, the draft and more
By Aaron Burd
Bengals mock offseason: Free Agents Signed
Kevin Zeitler, G, New York Giants
Former Bengals’ guard Kevin Zeitler was released by the New York Giants on Wednesday, and a reunion between the two could make a lot of sense. Not many players remain from Zeitler’s time in Cincinnati, but Mike Brown and the rest of the front office like familiarity. Their preference for comfort could lead them to bring back their former first-round pick from Wisconsin.
Josh Reynolds, WR, Los Angeles Rams
With A.J. Green and John Ross III on their way out in free agency, the Bengals will be looking for a receiver to work into the rotation. During his time with the Los Angeles Rams, Zac Taylor worked with Josh Reynolds. Taylor’s connection with the free-agent wide receiver could make signing Reynolds a quiet but intriguing move.
Roy Robertson-Harris, DL, Chicago Bears
If the Bengals do choose to part ways with Geno Atkins, they will have a major hole on the interior of their defensive line. Roy Robertson-Harris is a huge defensive lineman who could serve as a DT in a 4-3 defense or a DE in a 3-4 defense.
Brian Poole, CB, New York Jets
In 2019, the Bengals brought cornerback Brian Poole in for a visit. While Poole ended up going to play for the New York Jets, Cincinnati could be interested in the veteran cornerback again. Poole has impressed during his time in New York and could be a good solution at the slot/nickel corner spot. With William Jackson III and Mackensie Alexander potentially leaving, they will need all the help they can get.
Carl Lawson, EDGE, Cincinnati Bengals
Re-signing Carl Lawson should be the Bengals’ top priority. With their current lack of edge rushers, losing the former Auburn player would be detrimental. Lawson has said that the Bengals are the frontrunner but that he will see what his market is. Duke Tobin and co. should give him an offer he can’t refuse.
Quinton Spain, G, Cincinnati Bengals
After being released by the Buffalo Bills in the middle of the 2020 season, Quinton Spain was brought in by the Bengals. If the team doesn’t think they can find a better guard to start opposite Zeitler this year, they could re-sign Spain to a short contract while they continue their search for a long-term solution.
Brandon Wilson, S/KR, Cincinnati Bengals
Brandon Wilson is one of the best kick returners in the league and the Bengals will make a point of bringing him back for Darrin Simmons’ special teams unit.
Kevin Huber, P, Cincinnati Bengals
Kevin Huber is the longest-tenured player on the Bengals’ roster and he appears to have a lot more left in the tank. Expect them to sign him to a short and team-friendly deal.
Mike Daniels, DL, Cincinnati Bengals
In his one year with the Bengals, Mike Daniels seems to be bought into what Zac Taylor and the front office are building. While he may not be a long-term solution on the interior of the defensive line, he will be good to have in the rotation on a cheap deal.
Josh Bynes, LB, Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are likely hoping to give more snaps to their young guns at the linebacker position, but Josh Bynes is a good veteran presence to have around as they develop.
Cethan Carter, TE, Cincinnati Bengals
Cethan Carter doesn’t make a name for himself on offense but has become a reliable part of Darrin Simmons’ special teams unit.