Grading the Cincinnati Bengals free agent signings from Day 1

The Cincinnati Bengals wasted no time trying to improve their offensive line through free agency. Within minutes of the legal tampering period getting underway, the stripes struck a deal with former Bucs guard, Alex Cappa. Less than two hours later, they landed former Patriot Ted Karras on a three-year deal.

The defensive trenches needed fine-tuning too, especially after Larry Ogunjobi signed a huge three-year deal with the Bears within an hour of the legal tampering period kicking off. Fortunately, the team agreed to terms on a three-year deal with B.J. Hill, keeping him in the black and orange stripes through the 2024 season.

Cappa played right guard for the Buccaneers and has only gotten better throughout his career. A former third-round pick out of powerhouse Humboldt State, Cappa blossomed into a so-called “glass-eater” during his time in Tampa.

Karras spent all but one of his six seasons in New England and spent time at a plethora of positions. He saw time at both guard spots as well as center and that versatility is one of many things that drew the Bengals to him.

Cincinnati knew they needed to improve their offensive line and they went out and did that early on in the legal tampering period. They might not have signed the biggest names out there but they signed solid players who are going to be able to step in and immediately add a positive impact to this group.

Bengals fans know what to expect with Hill because they watched him play for an entire season. Most are elated to have him back in the Queen City for three more years.

With the reigning AFC champions making these three moves, let’s slap some grades on the signings.