The Cincinnati Bengals are close to contract extensions with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins during the free-agency frenzy.
Monster contracts like that, funnily enough, will create cap space for the team through a few different means, but mostly by taking Higgins’ $26 million franchise tag off the books.
If that breaks the Bengals out of a slumber, these are some of the best free agents left at positions of need.
RB J.K. Dobbins
Surprised to see a running back? Maybe don’t be — Zack Moss’ injury situation isn’t clear. Chase Brown needs a direct rotational presence and it might not be Samaje Perine. If Dobbins is forced to settle for a prove-it deal, he’s a great runner and pass protector.
G Teven Jenkins
The Bengals have an interest but Jenkins will visit at least one other team. He’s a former second-round pick who could upgrade many guard spots around the league, but especially the one in Cincinnati.
CB Rasul Douglas
The Bengals need more cover corners and a low risk like Douglas could make lots of sense. If they’re hunting for an almost Eli Apple-like presence, he’s the top option.
DE Azeez Ojulari
The Bengals were interested in Ojulari too. From the sounds of it, they looped back and re-signed Joseph Ossai instead. But it doesn’t need to be an either-or thing if Ojulari has a small market — the more efficient pass-rushers, the better.
G Brandon Scherff
If the Bengals want to go a little older at the guard spot, Scherff is plenty effective as a pass-blocker, which is what they value. He’d be an immediate upgrade and at this stage of his career and perhaps not too costly.
