5 free agents we can be glad the Cincinnati Bengals didn’t sign

2. Brandon Scherff

Brandon Scherff signed a 3 year, $49,500,000 contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

The best ability is availability. When healthy, there is no denying Brandon Scherff’s talent. However, his injury history made this move too big a risk for the Bengals to make, especially at that price.

Scherff has not logged a full season since 2016. The Bengals were in absolutely no position to bring in a player we cannot count on for an entire season. Now, I understand accidents happen, and injuries can be hard to predict, but 22 missed games over the past five seasons is not something I want any part of.

Once again, we will let Jacksonville spend its money. Cincinnati can be content with making the safer, smarter option in Alex Cappa.

1. Terron Armstead

Terron Armstead signed a 5 year, $75,000,000 contract with the Miami Dolphins. 

The Bengals were in the market for a right tackle, not a left, as Jonah Williams has played well enough to keep his starting role on the left side. If the Bengals were going to move his position, it would have already happened. Williams is the left tackle for the foreseeable future.

Between La’el Collins, Alex Cappa, and Ted Karras, the Bengals dished out $74,000,000 in salary, one million less than the total salary for Armstead. As far as guaranteed money, the Bengals gave those three a combined $21,000,000, whereas Miami gave Armstead $43,370,000.

The reality of the situation is the Bengals could not afford to get tied into a five-year contract of this magnitude. In the coming months, Joe Burrow, Tee Higgins, Jesse Bates III, and Vonn Bell will all be looking for new contracts.

The Cincinnati Bengals have to prioritize retaining their young talent.