If a deal between the Bengals and Adam Jones happens, it's expected to happen today. Per Joe Reedy, "One way or another a decision on if Jones does become a Bengal is expected on Thursday." Today is Thursday. So what's the holdup.
A deal still appears to be imminent, but the main things that both sides are working through are performance-based incentives and conduct clauses. If he signs, Jones would report to the Bengals on Monday and be on the field for the team’s first on-field coaching session and passing camp on Tuesday.
Said one of Jones’ representatives, Tom Hunter: “There’s no deal until there is something signed on paper.”
It's pretty hard to believe that Jones couldn't get a deal done, being out of work since 2008 with a terrible reputation that mostly all teams are trying to avoid. The Bengals are taking the best approach by giving Jones something very minimal that will motivate Jones on the field and off it with clauses.