Bengals Remaining Free Agent Targets, Zac Taylor On Joe Burrow, Reds vs. Diamondbacks

As the Bengals move toward the middle of June, two veteran free agents continue to make sense as potential additions: Bobby Wagner and Joey Bosa.

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Wagner is arguably the cleaner fit. Cincinnati's linebacker room remains one of the biggest question marks on the roster, especially after several offseason changes. Even at 36 years old, Wagner remains productive against the run and brings elite football intelligence, leadership, and communication skills. Recent analysis of the Bengals' roster has highlighted linebacker as an unfinished position group and specifically identified Wagner as a veteran who could immediately stabilize the defense.

The biggest concern with Wagner is coverage ability. He is no longer the sideline-to-sideline defender he was during his prime with the Seahawks, and opposing offenses would likely target him in passing situations. Still, for a Bengals defense looking to improve consistency and leadership, Wagner could be a valuable short-term answer while younger linebackers continue developing. The recent restructuring of Joe Burrow's contract reportedly created additional cap flexibility, making a move more feasible than it was earlier this offseason.

Bosa presents a different type of gamble. The former Ohio State star has long been connected to Cincinnati because of his relationship with Burrow and the Bengals' desire to improve their pass rush. Several Bengals-focused outlets have continued to mention Bosa as a logical target throughout the offseason.

The upside is obvious. When healthy, Bosa can still affect games as a pass rusher and would give defensive coordinator Al Golden another experienced edge presence. The concern, however, is durability. Injuries have become a recurring theme in Bosa's career, making it difficult to project him as a full-season contributor.

If Cincinnati signs only one of the two, Wagner feels like the more realistic and immediate need. But if the Bengals believe they are one pass rusher away from making a deep playoff run, Bosa remains the higher-upside swing as training camp approaches.

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