CINCINNATI — Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano dropped his one free agent each NFL should sign this week and has cornerback Stephon Gilmore as a Bengals fit.

Gilmore just posted 54 tackles, two interceptions, and 13 pass breakups (t-16th in NFL) for the Cowboys last season.

“The Dallas Cowboys likely will let Gilmore walk because they have cap space issues and already have standout cornerbacks Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland,” Manzano wrote. “The Bengals should jump at the opportunity to add Gilmore, who proved last season he still has plenty to offer on the field, starting every game and recording two interceptions in 2023.”

The Dallas money issues could help Cincinnati here as they could solidify the backend with Gilmore’s veteran presence as Chidobe Awuzie’s future with the Bengals is up in the air.

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3 affordable free agent targets for Bengals this offseason

The Cincinnati Bengals have a lot of salary cap space to work with this offseason. But, that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be judicious when it comes to dishing out deals.

On the contrary, with a huge contract committed to quarterback Joe Burrow and another one likely on the way for wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati’s front office is going to want to maximize the money and identify good deals wherever possible.

With that in mind, here’s a look at three relatively affordable free agents that the Bengals can go after this offseason.

Rashaad Penny, Running Back

Joe Mixon’s future with the Bengals isn’t completely clear, as the team could save some coin by parting ways with him in the coming days. If Mixon is waived, or even if he’s back, the Bengals could use some additional depth at the running back position and Penny could be an affordable option.