Bengals Splash Cash in Free Agency, Target Young Talent

0:00With the NFL today, March 5th, the Cincinnati Bengals look ready to splash cash in NFL free agency with about $47 million in cap space for next season. That figure comes after the leak set the salary cap, giving them plenty of room to maneuver as buyers in the market. By skipping the franchise tag on defensive end, Trey Hendrickson, they avoided a massive $30 million cap hit. Now they can chase their own free agents or shop elsewhere without that burden weighing them down. Among their pending free agents are Ed rusher Joseph Osai, quarterback Joe Flacco, and tight-in Noah Fant, though Hendrickson, safety Geno Stone, and backup Jake Browning appear unlikely to return. Fans hope Flacco comes back as a bridge option, but he might test the starter market first. Dead money hits total around $11 million from recent moves, but cuts to players like defensive lineman TJ Slayton could free up another six. Million or so after June 1st, that keeps their flexibility high for roster tweaks.

1:05Looking ahead, the Bengals eye contract extensions for cornerbacks, DJ Turner and Dax Hill to lock in young talent before price is climb. Turner's breakout year could demand top value, while Heel's health and boundary play make him a smart early deal. Diann is sponsored by our partner, a pillow that sounds as good as it feels. Still for listening in bed, S-O-L-I-SOLYPILLOW.com.