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Bengals sign safety Bryan Cook amid mixed reviews from NFL coaches

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 16, 2026, 11:00 PM

Last updated Jul 16, 2026

Bengals sign safety Bryan Cook amid mixed reviews from NFL coaches
Summary

The Cincinnati Bengals have signed safety Bryan Cook to a three-year, $40.25 million deal. This move aims to address past shortcomings after the departure of Jessie Bates. Cook, previously with the Kansas City Chiefs, is recognized on offseason rankings alongside top safeties, but NFL executives and coaches have yet to be fully convinced of this acquisition's impact. The Bengals hope Cook can help develop Jordan Battle and strengthen a struggling defense as they transition from last year's ineffective safety performances.

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  • •Bryan Cook signed a three-year deal worth $40.25 million.
  • •Cook was ranked as the fourth-best safety by Pro Football Focus last season.
  • •Jessie Bates, the previous starter, now plays for the Atlanta Falcons.
  • •Coaches express hesitation over the overall value of the signing.
  • •Cincinnati aims to address significant defensive issues from last season.
Latest Updates
  • 11:00 PMYahoo Sports — NFL execs, coaches not fully sold on Bengals' free-agent signing yet
What they're saying
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The Bengals made a big splash in free agency. But changing the NFL-wide perception of the move is going to take time.

Related Teams & Leagues
Atlanta FalconsCincinnati BengalsKansas City ChiefsNFLFootball

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