Grading the Cincinnati Bengals free agent signings from Day 4

Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Eli Apple (20) waives his finger after breaking up a would be touchdown in the first half the NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, at Empower Field in Denver, Co.Cincinnati Bengals At Denver Broncos 378
Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Eli Apple (20) waives his finger after breaking up a would be touchdown in the first half the NFL football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, at Empower Field in Denver, Co.Cincinnati Bengals At Denver Broncos 378 /
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Cincinnati Bengals
Hayden Hurst (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

The Cincinnati Bengals had two quiet days but got back in the swing of things on Thursday. Let’s grade their free-agent signings. 

Day 1 of free agency saw the Bengals get off to a roaring start, signing Alex Cappa and Ted Karras to help fix their offensive line and also re-sign B.J. Hill, who impressed in a big way last year.

The next two days came and went without much going on. Cincinnati re-signed some lesser-known guys during that time but it took until Thursday for them to really make some noise again.

The first move of the day was re-signing wide receiver, Mike Thomas. This wasn’t a flashy move but it also wasn’t a bad move by any means. He’s a depth piece at a deep position.

After bringing back a low-key wide receiver, Cincinnati answered their backup quarterback question, agreeing to terms with Brandon Allen on a one-year deal. The contract keeps Allen in Cincinnati for year No. 3.

Next up, the stripes added depth at tight end, agreeing on a one-year deal with Hayden Hurst. This move didn’t have fans jumping for joy but it was a solid move.

They also retained Eli Apple on a one-year deal and did so for a bargain. Apple wasn’t the most popular player due to his trash-talking and giving up the game-winning touchdown in the Super Bowl but this was a good move for Cincy.

What grades do they deserve for these free-agent signings? Let’s dive in.