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The Cincinnati Bengals have been busy in free agency, making several key moves to bolster their team for the upcoming season.
The Bengals, after investing in protecting Joe Burrow last season, are making this goal a priority again. After back-to-back seasons reaching the AFC Championship, their goal will be to return to the championship once more while Burrow's contract remains on the rookie wage scale.
Cincinnati Bengals signings
The Bengals made a significant investment in Orlando Brown, signing him to a four-year, $64-million deal, including a $31 million signing bonus. The move was made to improve the team's pass protection, which ranked 30th in pass block win rate last season. While the contract is structured to have a high amount of guaranteed money, Cincinnati needed to make a bold move to protect Joe Burrow.
There is a significant amount of risk with a contract structured like Brown's. Cincinnati has struggled to find long-term solutions at offensive tackle, and Brown's contract is the biggest ever given to an offensive lineman.
Nick Scott signed to a three-year, $12 million deal to address their need for a veteran safety. Scott has the potential to step in and be a Day 1 starter alongside Dax Hill in the back of the secondary. At this point, there is little risk. The Bengals needed someone with experience to put alongside Hill, and Scott fills that void without being a significant financial investment.
The franchise retained Germaine Pratt (LB) to a three-year deal. Pratt is a valuable member of the defense and provides continuity in the middle of the field. Given the state of the linebacker market, Pratt's deal could be considered a bargain. The Bengals were able to retain at least one member of a defense that has been solid under coordinator Lou Anarumo the last couple of seasons.
Cody Ford reached a one-year deal, addressing the need for depth on the offensive line. Ford gives Cincinnati a quality backup in their effort to protect Burrow. The deal addresses a position that the Bengals cannot neglect.
Michael Thomas (S) re-signed on a one-year deal. Thomas is a trusted presence in the locker room and a valuable resource for younger players. There was little to no risk in this move. While the contract details are yet to be revealed, bringing back Thomas will have minimal financial ramifications.
The franchise plans to re-sign Trayveon Williams (RB) on a one-year deal to solidify their depth. Williams is the frontrunner to be the top backup and potentially the team's top option on third down.
Notable Cincinnati Bengals departures
Jessie Bates III is the biggest loss as he is a fine safety, but a large contract to keep him was likely not advisable with the upcoming deal for Joe Burrow. Hayden Hurst and Samaje Perine were losses for the offense, Perine in particular had some great games in the second half of 2022 and worked well in Joe Mixon's absence.
