Bengals sign safety Bryan Cook to three-year, $40 million deal

The Cincinnati Bengals have signed safety Bryan Cook to a three-year contract worth $40 million. The deal includes an $18 million cash payout this year, placing Cook among the top paid safeties in the NFL. This signing is met with criticism, with some analysts describing it as an overpayment due to Cook's limited production, having only three interceptions and 15 pass breakups in his 62 games. The Bengals’ decision comes as they look to fill gaps left by previous failed attempts to replace Jessie Bates. Despite concerns, the coaching staff believes Cook fits their defensive scheme well.

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