After Bruce Gradkowski defecated defected to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Cincinnati Bengals found themselves needing a backup quarterback. Speculation is that they'll look to the later rounds of the 2013 NFL draft, but that's hardly an immediate solution. For the time being they'll want a veteran.
They've hosted Josh Johnson and spoke with former Bengals quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, who was released by the Buffalo Bills.
Another option could be on the table.
According to ESPN NFL Insider Chris Mortensen, the Cincinnati Bengals are interested in Matt Hasselbeck, along with several teams around the NFL.
Teams interested in Matt Hasselbeck: AZ, Buff, Chi, Cin, Cleve, Indy, NO, NYG, SF & Tampa,...and list could grow.
— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) March 18, 2013
Hasselbeck was released by the Tennessee Titans on Monday after the two sides failed to reduce Hasselbeck's $5.5 million salary and $7.5 million cap number in 2013.
Hasselbeck will be entering his 15th season in the NFL, having completed 60.4 percent of his career passes for 34,517 yards passing and 201 touchdowns.
However according to Geoff Hobson, the Bengals don't appear to be pursuing Hasselbeck who, according to reports, is likely to land in Indianapolis.
#Bengals don't appear to be pursuing Hasselbeck as backup QB
— Geoff Hobson (@GeoffHobsonCin) March 19, 2013