Vinny Curry is set for his first free agent meeting. Geoff Mosher of 97.3 ESPN in South Jersey reports (via Twitter) that the veteran defensive end is set to meet with the Bengals on Monday.
The 30-year-old signed a long-term deal with the Buccaneers last offseason, but the team cut him in early February. The former Eagles starter appeared in 12 games (seven starts) with Tampa Bay last season, compiling 15 tackles, 2.5 sacks, seven quarterback hits, and five tackles for loss.
While these numbers don’t jump off the page, Curry proved he was a capable starter in 2017. He surely won’t be able to receive a contract that approaches the three-year, $23MM deal he signed with the Bucs last offseason. However, pass rushers are always in demand, so Curry may be able to settle for a (relatively) big-money, short-term deal.
The Bengals aren’t hurting for defensive ends, with Carlos Dunlap and Sam Hubbard slotted in as starters. However, if Curry signs with Cincy, he’ll be able to compete with the likes of Carl Lawson and Jordan Willis for backup reps.