Nick Cross: Top Safety Target for Bengals in Free Agency

0:00On March 8, free agency is right around the corner in the NFL, and one name gaining buzz is Indianapolis Colts Safety, Nick Cross. ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler recently pointed to the Cincinnati Bengals as a possible destination for the 24-year-old free agent. Cross has been a reliable starter over the last two seasons, shining near the line of scrimmage as a strong safety. He racked up 16 quarterback pressures last year, and ranked fourth among safeties in run-stop rate per pro football focus metrics, while also holding up well in coverage. Colts' general manager, Chris Ballard, made it clear the team wants to focus on bolstering the front-7, this off-season. They already handed a big contract to safety-cam-binum last year, and insiders like Stephen Holder see cross-heading elsewhere. Projections have cross-landing a four-year deal worth about $24 million. Without him, Hunter Waller could step into the starting role next to binom, though the Colts were likely bringing competition. At just $24, with solid experience, Cross should draw plenty of interest from teams

1:04needing secondary help, setting up an intriguing market as Negotiations kickoff.