Major Outlet Names Two Players as Top Free Agent Fits For Bengals

Major Outlet Names Two Players as Top Free Agent Fits For Bengals

ESPN’s Matt Bowen announced his top 50 free agency fits this offseason, and he believes two Ravens defensive tackles, Justin Madubuike and Tee Higgins, are strong alternatives for the Bengals.

DJ Reader’s contract expired after this season, leaving a significant vacuum on Cincinnati’s defensive line.

“Look for the Ravens to make a strong play to retain Madubuike, who had a career-high 13 sacks in 2023,” Bowen said in a statement. “But I also like him in Cincinnati, where the defense needs to add more pace and playmaking ability to its front seven. Last season, the Bengals allowed the league’s worst average of 6.0 yards per play. Madubuike possesses the foot quickness and first-step energy to leverage blocks and make an impression at  the pocket.”

The former third-round pick blossomed in Mike Macdonald’s scheme in 2023, with eight sacks in his career. In 2023, he doubled his season career high in pressures, with 64.

Madubuike, like Higgins, is a strong possibility to be franchise tagged, therefore it would be remarkable if he went free.

“If Higgins does make it to free agency, Carolina would also be a fantastic fit, as the Panthers need a WR1,” Bowen said in a statement. “But I have him sticking in Cincinnati on the franchise tag, and with a healthy Joe Burrow back to open the 2024 season and Ja’Marr Chase on the other side of the field, this move may put the Bengals back in contention for the Super Bowl. In four seasons with Cincinnati, Higgins has 24 touchdown receptions.”

Retaining Higgins and adding Madubuike this offseason is quite doubtful.

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