A breakdown of the initial wave of free agency for the Cincinnati Bengals:
Overall grade: B. The Bengals got one important thing done by trading for a left tackle before free agency, and re-signing Tyler Eifert was a top priority. But it still feels as if they have holes on the offensive line that might not necessarily be fixed by the draft. The Bengals temporarily fixed their hole at middle linebacker by signing Preston Brown to a one-year deal , but with Vontaze Burfict suspended again, they don't have a solid backup plan to fill his spot.
Most significant signing: Re-signing Eifert. While trading for Bills LT Cordy Glenn was the biggest move of the offseason, it wasn't actually a free-agent signing. The biggest move here was getting a deal done with Eifert. It's impossible to say whether Eifert will be able to stay healthy after missing a majority of the past two years, but he's a huge part of their offense when he is on the field. The Bengals managed to get a one-year deal done with him, which could go a long way toward getting their last-place offense out of the cellar.
Most significant loss: Center Russell Bodine. The Bengals' offensive line was a mess last year, and while the trade for Glenn went a long way, they still have significant holes. Clint Boling can be penciled in at left guard, but center and right guard are now a work in progress. The Bengals wanted to retain Bodine, but ultimately the numbers never worked out, and he signed with the Bills.
Player they should have signed: The Bengals clearly liked Panthers safety Kurt Coleman enough to offer him a three-year deal, but he ended up choosing the Saints instead. If the Bengals were prepared to offer him starter money, it stands to reason they could see this position as one that could need upgrading in the future. That makes it surprising that the Bengals never went after another safety in free agency.
What's next: It's all eyes on the draft now. The Bengals probably will be pursuing some offensive linemen, and a center in particular to replace Bodine. Also on the table is a linebacker after Burfict received a four-game suspension. While Marvin Lewis mentioned playing Carl Lawson at linebacker more in 2018, that seems more like a temporary fix than anything else.
Additions: Preston Brown, LB; Bobby Hart, OT; Chris Baker, DT; Matt Barkley, QB
Losses: AJ McCarron, QB; Jeremy Hill, RB; Russell Bodine, C, Andre Smith, OT, Chris Smith; DT