Bengals bring back safety Vonn Bell in free agency

The Cincinnati Bengals are bringing back a familiar face.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Bengals have agreed to terms with free agent safety Vonn Bell on a veteran-minimum contract.

Bell originally joined the Bengals in free agency back in 2020 and was a key part of the rebuild. He left last offseason to join the Carolina Panthers on a multi-year deal but was cut recently.

Cincinnati desperalty needs the help at safety, where they signed free agent Geno Stone and cut Nick Scott. The team signed the latter last year to help after the loss of Bell and Jessie Bates to the open market, but Dax Hill, Scott and rookie Jordan Battle struggled throughout the season.

Bell doesn’t necessarily return as a starter, but Lou Anarumo employs plenty of three-safety sets and his leadership value for a young secondary is a huge part of the signing.