Bengals: 3 free agents that could alter 2021 NFL Draft plans

Carl Lawson, EDGE

A free agent that the Bengals are very familiar with, Carl Lawson’s value is currently at an all-time high. The former fourth rounder from Auburn led the team in sacks with five and a half. Playing in all 16 games for the first time since his rookie season, Lawson was able to generate a career high 32 quarterback hits, good for second in the NFL, only behind the Pittsburgh Steeler’s T.J. Watt. Despite Lawson’s low sack total, recording that many quarterback hits shows that it wasn’t for a lack of effort or skill. He suffered from not having much help from the other side, as the team finished last in the entire league with 17 sacks.

Resigning Lawson immediately relieves the pressure of drafting an edge early. The Bengals do still need to add some serious talent into the edge position, however resigning Lawson allows for the Bengals to be patient and not overreach. While this draft class isn’t loaded with pass rushers, there are some nice prospects that will be available for them in the middle rounds. Between Lawson, Sam Hubbard and a mid-round rookie, in addition to the returns of D.J. Reeder and Geno Atkins, and suddenly Cincinnati’s defensive line doesn’t look nearly as bad.

Contract wise, it will be curious to see how this plays out. There is a very real possibility of the Bengals using the franchise tag on Lawson, with a long term contract extension in the forefront of  conversations. While Lawson might be enticed to look at his options, if the Bengals are offering top dollar for his services, he should absolutely consider them as an option. The familiarity of the team, being a leader on the defense and having a franchise quarterback on the other side are all things that Lawson will have to factor into his decision.