The Cincinnati Bengals still have value in free agency even though the pantry is largely empty.
Without knowing the specifics of Trent Brown’s one-year deal, it’s difficult to estimate the team’s remaining cap space; nonetheless, they had little less than $30 million left when Brown signed. $20 million or a little bit more could be an acceptable estimate.
There’s room for a few minor acquisitions to flesh out the roster before the NFL Draft, given the club’s financial history. These players might be able to fill the role.
Rock Ya-Sin, cornerback:
2024 age: 28.
While one of our projected additions is still looking for a place to call home, his former teammate Geno Stone has already made Cincinnati his home. In just five years in the NFL, Ya-Sin has been a reliable but unspectacular cornerback for all three of the clubs he has played for. The Bengals have faced him twice this past season, so they have seen his most recent footage.
Like Stone, he is familiar with the division and can jump right in. That’s great for a fourth cornerback job; unless he waits for injuries to arise later in the summer, that’s the best role he can hope for.
Dalton Risner, guard:
2024 age: 29.
For whatever reason, Risner has never been a fan of free agency. During his prior tenures with the Minnesota Vikings and Denver Broncos, he was a serviceable player. Though he was an offensive assistant on staff for both teams, Bengals pass game coordinator Justin Rascati saw him play. Given his positive opinion of Risner, would he be able to persuade the Bengals to sign him?
Risner may have to settle for competing for a job in lieu of his desire to be a starter and receive a starter’s compensation. It was for this reason that he did not sign with a team until after the regular season started in 2017. This summer, he has every chance to defeat Cordell Volson at left guard.
Richie James, wide receiver:
2024 age: 29.
The Bengals may be searching elsewhere because it is quite expected that they will select a receiver in the first round next month. While there is no certainty of a roster place for any free agent they bring in at this stage, which will turn away big names, James might be a fascinating talk.
At this stage of his career, James is more of a gadget player and return specialist. Additionally, because Tyler Boyd is currently exploring other alternatives, the Bengals lack experience playing out of the slot, which he possesses.
