The Cincinnati Bengals didn’t address the linebacker position in the NFL draft.
But Bengals brass sure sound open to free agents at the position, still.
No wonder. The Bengals still believe in Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter. But looking back at the Logan Wilson drama and the ineffective signing of Oren Burks, it’s clear the team didn’t do nearly enough to get capable veterans in the room last year.
So, that needs to change and sounds like it will. Here are the best linebackers left.
Best NFL free agent LBs still available
Bobby Okereke
Bobby Okereke is a former third-round pick who will turn 30 over the summer and brings plenty of game experience to a depth chart. He has drawbacks, like missed tackles, but his coverage grade at Pro Football Focus, at least, ranked 22nd out of 88 players. He had 103 total tackles last season and could help the rotation.
Bobby Wagner
By far the most popular name left, Bobby Wagner will turn 36 in June, so he’d mesh with the all-in vibes right now. He’s slowing down and will continue to do so because of age. But when we say slowing down, we’re still talking about him finishing graded ninth overall out of 88 linebackers at Pro Football Focus last season. His run defense grade was fifth overall. Even if he doesn’t touch the field, the experience and mentorship he can provide is mostly unmatched at the position.
Matt Milano
Matt Milano sort of falls in the Logan Wilson (who is still available, but retired) bucket at this point. He’s turning 32 in July and was 79th on that list of 88 players at his spot at Pro Football Focus. But that’s the stage of free agency we’re at right now and the veteran aspect to help along the young guys is still very real.
Other notes to remember
Two important things to keep in mind about the Bengals’ linebacker situation:
This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Bengals’ top free-agent LB targets, important notes after draft
Reporting by Chris Roling, Bengals Wire / Bengals Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
