Here’s a look at some of the best available free agents the Bengals still could bring in to improve the roster.
It’s been a wild week. The Cincinnati Bengals kicked off the 2025 league year by re-signing Mike Gesicki, BJ Hill, Joseph Ossai, and several of their pending free agents. They also brought in outside additions like linebacker Oren Burks and nose tackle T.J. Slaton while reuniting with running back Samaje Perine.
Then, things slowed to a crawl. Free agents — many of whom could have been valuable assets without breaking the bank—signed elsewhere, and restless fans took to social media (as they do). Just before panic set in, the Bengals made their biggest moves yet: securing Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on four-year deals.
Now, reports suggest that Cincinnati and Trey Hendrickson are back at the negotiating table. While no deal has been finalized yet, there’s still hope the two sides can work something out.
So, what’s next?
The Bengals must focus on what’s left. There are still several free agents who could help them get where they want to go—or, at the very least, prevent them from reaching for need-based picks in the draft.
Free Agents the Bengals Could Target
Brandon Scherff, G
The best remaining option to replace Alex Cappa or Cordell Volson. The 33-year-old started every game at right guard for Jacksonville in 2024, and per PFF, he didn’t allow a single sack all season.
He won’t require a long-term commitment or a massive payday—maybe he just wants a shot at a ring.
Mike Hilton, CB
One of the best free-agent signings in Bengals history, Hilton excelled in his nickel corner role, serving as a third linebacker in run support and a situational pass rusher. His coverage skills have declined slightly, but he still has a few good years left.
If he wants to stay in Cincinnati, the Bengals could do far worse.
Teven Jenkins, G (this was written before it was reported the Bengals reportedly weren’t interested)
At just 27 years old, Jenkins is likely the Bengals’ last, best shot at a young, talented guard they could sign to a multi-year deal. He had a solid 2024 season with Chicago and has experience at both right and left guard—making him an immediate upgrade over Volson or Ford.
Will Hernandez, G
Injured in Week 5 of 2024, Hernandez is an experienced guard option if he’s fully healthy. The former second-round pick is still looking for a home, and the Bengals need help.
Shaq Mason, G
Unlike Scherff, Mason did give up some sacks last season (eight, per PFF). Still, with his experience, he’d likely be an upgrade over Volson and Ford.
Za’Darius Smith, Edge
Cincinnati hasn’t locked up Hendrickson yet, and even if they do, another pass rusher would be a huge boost. If Joseph Ossai doesn’t pan out or Myles Murphy doesn’t take a step forward, Smith could be a crucial addition.
The Bengals need all the pass rush help they can get in a conference with Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson.
Chidobe Awuzie, CB
A familiar face who could bring much-needed veteran leadership to the secondary. He may not be the player he once was, but he could still provide depth and experience alongside Cam Taylor-Britt, DJ Turner, and Dax Hill.
Charles Omenihu, Edge
A former fifth-round pick out of Texas, Omenihu won a Super Bowl with the Chiefs in 2023 and reached another in 2024. He could be a valuable rotational pass rusher in Al Golden’s defense.
Stephon Gilmore, CB
Gilmore likely has one more year left in him. While not the All-Pro he once was, he could be a steady veteran presence in the secondary to help Cincinnati’s young DBs develop.
Justin Simmons, S
After signing a one-year deal with Atlanta in 2024, Simmons played alongside former Bengal Jessie Bates III and had a solid season. If any of that Bates magic rubbed off on him, he could bring a stabilizing presence to the Bengals’ secondary.
Calais Campbell, DT
A six-time Pro Bowler, Campbell could provide what the Bengals had hoped Sheldon Rankins would last season. He might look to finish his storied career in Cincinnati, chasing a Super Bowl with Joe Burrow and Co.
Jerome Baker, LB
With Germaine Pratt expected to depart, the Bengals added Burks—but he may be more of a replacement for Akeem Davis-Gaither than for a starting linebacker role. Baker has bounced around but has performed well and could also contribute as a pass rusher.
What Do You Think?
Which available free agents would you like to see the Bengals pursue now that Chase and Higgins are locked in?
Now if you’re feeling’ kinda low ‘bout the dues you’ve been paying
Future’s coming much too slow.
And you wanna run, but somehow you just keep on staying’
Can’t decide on which way to go
