On March 5, it was reported that the Bengals and Roy Williams were talking to get a deal done. Carlos Holmes wrote on his report that "the two sides are talking in an effort to get a deal done that would bring the former Pro Bowl safety back to Cincinnati." Roughly eight days later, talks continue and at last report, the Bengals and Roy Williams could have a deal signed as soon as today, writes Geoff Hobson.
After signing up coordinator Mike Zimmer for three years back in January and getting tackle Tank Johnson for four more last week, the Bengals Saturday appeared ready to finish off a deal for safety Roy Williams according to agent Jordan Woy.
Once Williams signs, the Bengals will have brought back both unrestricted free agents on defense that were on the roster in 2009. The other being Tank Johnson, who signed less than a week ago, which was announced on Thursday. They also offered Brandon Johnson, Rashad Jeanty, Frostee Rucker, Abdul Hodge and David Jones a tender as restricted free agents. Aside from Shaun Smith, who signed with the Kansas City Chiefs this week, the Bengals have taken every step possible to bring back all of their defensive players slated for free agency with the restricted free agents needing to sign their tenders.
As for bringing Williams back, the issue of the team's safety strength remains relatively the same -- strong against the run, something to be desired against the pass. We don't believe that this would cause any change in the team's strategy if they elect to find a play-maker at safety in the draft.
Joe Reedy writes that once the deal with Roy Williams is completed, the Bengals can turn and work on getting Bobbie Williams back.
UPDATE: It's official. Roy Williams and the Bengals agree to a one-year deal.