CINCINNATI — NFL free agency has officially started, and the Bengals are still trying to improve their roster while dealing with the loss of a few key pieces. Vonn Bell is returning to Cincinnati, along with a slew of new additions, while veterans DJ Reader and Chidobe Awuzie have signed elsewhere.
Cincinnati also made several moves earlier in the week. While there are still some unrestricted free agents to keep track of, including Tyler Boyd, here are some of Cincinnati's latest acquisitions and departures.
New signings:
- Safety Vonn Bell — one-year, $6 million
- Defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins — two-year, $26 million
- Running back Zack Moss — two-year, $8 million
- Tight end Mike Gesicki — one-year, $3.25 million
- Safety Geno Stone — two-year, $15 million
Key departures:
- Defensive tackle DJ Reader signs with the Lions
- Running back Joe Mixon traded to Texans
- Cornerback Chidobe Awuzie signs with Titans
- Offensive tackle Jonah Williams signs with Cardinals
- Safety Nick Scott released
RELATED | NFL free agency: Bengals trade Joe Mixon instead of releasing him
Extensions:
- Linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither — one-year, $3 million
- Tight end Drew Sample — three-year, $10.5 million
- Guard Cody Ford — one-year, $1.35 million
- Running back Trayveon Williams — one-year deal
- Tight end Tanner Hudson — one-year deal
Not featured on any of these lists is wide receiver Tee Higgins, who the Bengals slapped the franchise tag on earlier this offseason. Higgins made headlines this week when ESPN's Adam Schefter announced the 25-year-old requested a trade after his disappointment in the lack of talks about a long-term deal.
Rumors (that are unfounded) have also swirled about a possible LSU reunion between Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson. Despite fans' wishes, The Athletic's Dianna Russini said on Wednesday that the Vikings have no interest in trading their All-Pro receiver despite his quarterback's departure.
RELATED | Rumor Mill: Is Justin Jefferson joining former teammates Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase in Cincinnati?
WCPO will continue to update this story with more information as it is announced.
