The Cincinnati Bengals' defensive woes probably cost the franchise a trip to the playoffs last season, and that side of the football still appears problematic heading into 2025.
Cincinnati invested monster money in long-term extensions for wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, leaving the defense considerably fewer resources with which to rebuild. As such, the secondary in particular may need to look at short-term value bets in free agency to fill the gaps, as the Bengals front office attempts to draft its way to an inexpensive, yet quality, defense.
One option in that regard is cornerback Stephon Gilmore, a former Defensive Player of the Year who most recently played for the Minnesota Vikings on a one-year contract worth $7 million in 2024.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report authored an argument for Cincinnati as a top landing spot for Gilmore on Saturday, April 5.
After ranking 21st in passing yards allowed, 25th in total yards allowed and 25th in points allowed, the Cincinnati Bengals decided to shake things up defensively this offseason.
Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo was fired and replaced by Al Golden. Cincinnati also added defensive lineman T.J. Slaton and linebacker Oren Burks. However, the Bengals have done nothing to improve their cornerback room.
Stephon Gilmore will turn 35 in September but could help with the Bengals' defensive transition this season.
Gilmore hasn't been a Pro Bowler for the past three seasons, but he did start all 15 games in which he appeared for the Vikings last year. He finished the campaign with nine pass breakups and one interception.
Spotrac projects Gilmore's market value at $5.3 million annually on a new one-year contract.
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