Don’t count on the Bengals re-signing important free agents.
Every opportunity we get to propose that the Cincinnati Bengals bring back some of their own free agents, we highlight the depth boost that players like Eli Apple and Mitchell Wilcox can still provide.
Just before the draft, the Bengals still have a few significant free agents on the market.
And, as Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com points out, some of those names could still be in play:
STILL ON THE RADAR: Depending on how the draft goes, the Bengals may re-sign some players. They might also bring back cornerbacks Eli Apple and Tre Flowers, tight end Mitchell Wilcox, and linebacker Clay Johnson in addition to Brandon Allen. Wilcox and Johnston are currently receiving major rehabilitation.
Apple makes the most sense, assuming he’s willing to return in a supporting role. He was thrust into starting duty two years in a succession and performed admirably, certainly aided by the program and Lou Anarumo’s defense. Even if the Bengals take a corner in the first round, bringing him back makes a lot of sense.
The same can be said for Wilcox and Clay Johnston, two critical depth pieces who can bolster key areas of the depth chart even if the team adds a rookie to those positions.
These signings are more likely to occur after the draft and into the summer, if at all — but they make a lot of sense, so don’t overlook them.
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