Defensive end Connor Barwin is set to meet with the Bengals on Monday, reports ESPN’s Adam Caplan (via Twitter). This will be the veteran’s first visit since he was released by the Eagles last week.
The former second-round pick joined the Eagles in 2013 after signing a six-year, $36MM contract ($8MM guaranteed), and he proceeded to make his only Pro Bowl appearance in 2014. The 30-year-old didn’t miss a game during his four-year tenure in Philly, starting all but one game. Barwin finished 2016 with 34 tackles, five sacks, and one forced fumbles.
Signing with the Bengals would be a bit of a homecoming for Barwin, who played 51 games for the Cincinnati Bearcats between 2005 and 2008.
As Caplan notes, the Bengals need help at both defensive end and linebacker, and Barwin is capable of filling either hole. The team is currently rostering three defensive ends (Carlos Dunlap, Michael Johnson, Will Clarke) and six linebackers (Vincent Rey, Rey Maualuga, Vontaze Burfict, Marquis Flowers, Nick Vigil, Paul Dawson).
The 49ers reportedly had interest in Barwin before he was let go by the Eagles.
He’ll go to the colts or pats
The 49ers were interested when he was still attached to the Eagles, but now that he’s free to sign anywhere they’re not going to go after him? What am I missing here? Whatever…
He might not want to go to San Francisco since they’re still a couple of years from competing and he probably wants to try to win a ring.
Not a bad thought but the Bengals won’t get him a ring
Would be the kind of veteran player the pats like to sign
Run Conner and don’t look back!! Careers go to die in orange and black!! They don’t value guards or linebackers!! Or most importantly Championships!!
I think he would be a good fit in Green Bay. Perry and him on the edges while sliding Clay inside where he got just as many sacks.