As most of Bengaldom holds their breath in anticipation of James Harrison reaching a deal with the team, some small business was also taken care of on Monday. According to the Bengals' official twitter account, two of the team's restricted or exclusive rights free agents have now signed their tenders, officially bringing them back into the fold for 2013.
We announce signings of WR Andrew Hawkins (exclusive rights free agent) and S Jeromy Miles (restricted free agent). #Bengals
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) April 15, 2013
As we reported just prior to the opening of free agency in early March, the Bengals offered one-year tenders to both Hawkins and Miles. Their deals are worth $550,000 and $1.3 million, respectively.
Hawkins was the Bengals' primary slot receiver in 2012, contributing 533 yards on 51 receptions. He was also responsible for this incredible highlight touchdown, in which he brought down the entire Browns defense with a serious case of broken ankles.
Miles finished second on the team in special teams tackles in 2012 and will likely take over as top dog now that special teams ace Dan Skuta is with the 49ers. He also saw limited snaps on defense, where he added another 15 tackles.
As of now, only four Bengals' free agents remain unsigned.