The Cincinnati Bengals are looking to improve on the defensive side of the ball after a dismal campaign last season.
With major question marks in the secondary, the Bengals front office went hard after some veteran talent this offseason, adding Geno Stone to work alongside Vonn Bell, who returned on a one-year deal.
They also drafted Jordan Battle out of Alabama in the third round last year, and he’ll work as the No. 3 safety in the secondary.
Considering their chances of competing for a deep playoff run as Joe Burrow returns from a season-ending wrist injury, the Bengals need to be able to rely on their defense more, especially the back end.
In taking a look at potential trade suitors early in the season, Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report believes the Bengals should have an eye on Arizona Cardinals All-Pro safety Budda Baker.
“The Cincinnati Bengals have $10.8 million in cap space and should take a long look at Baker if he’s available. They brought back Vonn Bell on a one-year deal this offseason, but Baker would provide a long-term upgrade,” Knox wrote.
Knox acknowledged “any trade agreement would include a contract extension” since Baker requested a trade in 2023 due to a contract dispute.
The 28-year-old has been one of the best safeties in the NFL since he arrived on the scene in 2017. He’s a two-time All-Pro and six-time Pro Bowl selection — he’s earned the latter nod for five consecutive seasons.
A deal like this wouldn’t come cheap, and it remains to be seen if the Bengals would part ways with high draft capital.
Anything can happen in the NFL and adding Baker to the defense, while expensive, would likely answer a major question mark going into the season.
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