The Cincinnati Bengals are heading into the 2026 season with some big decisions to make in their secondary. Geno Stone isn't expected to return, leaving a gap at safety that the Bengals need to fill.
While fans might be dreaming of snagging Caleb Downs in the draft, it's a long shot that he’ll be available or that Cincinnati would use a top-10 pick on a safety. So, what’s the play here?
Signing a seasoned veteran in free agency could be the way to go. Let's dive into some of the top free-agent safeties who could fit the bill.
Bryan Cook
A familiar name for those in Cincinnati, Bryan Cook made a name for himself in college before being picked up by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2022 NFL Draft. Last season, he was a standout, ranking as the 4th-best safety according to PFF.
With an impressive 83.2 coverage grade, 80.1 run defense grade, and 88.5 tackling grade, Cook is a solid all-around player. He racked up 85 tackles and had a low 5.6% missed tackle rate.
Cook is projected to command a 3-year, $36 million deal, which could be a smart investment for the Bengals’ secondary.
Kamren Curl
Kamren Curl has consistently outperformed expectations since being drafted in the seventh round by Washington. Now a key player in the Rams’ secondary, Curl is just 26 and coming off a stellar season with 149 tackles, 2 sacks, and 3 interceptions.
His defensive grades are strong across the board, with an 87.9 run defense grade and an 87.0 tackling grade. With a projected 2-year, $17.5 million contract, Curl offers excellent value and could be a crucial addition for Cincinnati.
Kevin Byard
At 33, Kevin Byard might be one of the more experienced options, but he’s still playing at a high level. Last year with the Bears, Byard led the league with seven interceptions.
His coverage, run defense, and tackling grades all hold up well, making him a reliable veteran presence. Byard's expected contract is around $9 million per season, which could be a savvy short-term move for the Bengals.
Coby Bryant
Coby Bryant, another former Bearcat, is fresh off a Super Bowl-winning season with the Seahawks. He posted 76 tackles, 4 interceptions, and a forced fumble.
However, his 18.7% missed tackle rate is concerning, especially for a team like the Bengals, who struggled with tackling last year. Bryant is looking at a 3-year, $30 million contract, but Cincinnati might want to think twice before going this route if tackling is a priority.
Alohi Gilman
Alohi Gilman spent last season with Baltimore after a mid-season trade from the Chargers. He logged 90 tackles and a forced fumble, but his 16.4% missed tackle rate could be a red flag for the Bengals. Gilman’s projected 2-year, $13.5 million contract might be tempting, but Cincinnati needs to weigh the risk of those missed tackles.
Jaylinn Hawkins
Part of the AFC Champion Patriots’ secondary, Jaylinn Hawkins had a productive season with 86 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 4 interceptions. His grades are solid, and he's projected to earn a 3-year, $33 million deal. Hawkins offers a balanced skill set that could bolster the Bengals’ defense.
Jaquan Brisker
Jaquan Brisker, a former second-round pick by the Bears, is only 26 and coming off his rookie contract. With 116 tackles, 2 sacks, and an interception last season, Brisker is a tackling machine. His projected 3-year, $25 million contract makes him an attractive option for the Bengals looking to add young talent with upside.
Nick Cross
At just 24, Nick Cross is the youngest on this list but has already made a mark as a two-year starter for the Colts. He tallied 120 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and an interception last season. While his coverage grade needs improvement, his age and potential make him a hot commodity, with a projected 3-year, $35 million contract.
Other notable free-agent safeties include Reed Blankenship, Andre Cisco, Kyle Dugger, and more. The Bengals have plenty of options, but the key will be finding the right fit to shore up their secondary for the upcoming season.