The Arizona Cardinals have signed former Bengals LB Markus Bailey to a 1 year deal.
Bailey was originally a 7th round pick by the Bengals in 2020. He appeared in 60 games, making 4 starts. Bailey proved to be a reliable backup when he was called upon to fill in on defence. However, his biggest value came on special teams, an area where he had developed into one of the team’s best players.
The Bengals were able to keep Akeem Davis-Gaither and Joe Bachie, but a spot on the depth chart now opens up with Bailey’s departure. This will give guys like Shaka Hayward the chance to compete for a spot.
TE Mitchell Wilcox is another player who will not be returning to the Bengals. In a move that actually happened just before the draft, he is off to New England, after signing a 1 year deal with the Patriots.
Wilcox was originally signed by the Bengals as an undrafted free agent in 2021. He mostly worked as a blocker when he saw playing time on offence, though he did reel in 29 catches for 211 yards and a TD during his tenure with the team. His main role, however, was on special teams, where he became a favourite of Darrin Simmons.
There will be a lot of special teams snaps up for grabs with Wilcox gone. Drew Sample should continue to get work there. It will also be interesting to see how much work new draft picks Erick All or Tanner McLachlan get on special teams.
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