Cincinnati Bengals prepare for Jonah Williams' free agency departure by re-signing a key depth piece

Ford joined the Bengals last year on a one-year deal and made the roster as one of their primary reserves along the offensive line. He's listed as a guard, but most of his meaningful snaps in 2023 came as a tackle or an extra blocker attached to the formation. 

Bengals are fortifying their tackle depth prior to free agency

It's expected that the Bengals will watch right tackle Jonah Williams leave for a new team in free agency, which would create a massive vacancy for them up front.

Ford is not expected to start in Williams' place, but ensuring his place on the offseason roster gives them an emergency contingency in case free agency and the NFL Draft don't go the way they envision. The Bengals are likely to sign a free agent tackle, and potentially draft one as well.

We'll update this post when Ford's contract is revealed with the financials...