According to ESPN's John Clayton, cornerback Adam Jones has agreed to terms with the Cincinnati Bengals (hat tip to C1ncy4Life and Primal!). The signing has been imminent since earlier this week when Jones had a "productive" workout and meeting with Bengals coaches and ownership. Jones apparently convinced Bengals coaches he was worth the risk and I think that we, as Bengals fans, need to reserve judgement for now. Clayton indicated that Jones showed up to his second workout with the Bengals earlier this week in much better shape than his workout earlier in the off-season.
Jones has obviously made poor decisions in the past, but so did Chris Henry and we still backed the kid. I'm staying on the fence on this one until we see how it goes, but I'm not as against it as some others I've talked to. ESPN also indicated that the Bengals are proceeding cautiously.
According to a source, the Bengals inserted language in the contract to protect themselves in case he gets into trouble off the field. The team wanted a two-year deal instead of a one-year contract because they are willing to take a chance other teams are not.
ESPN's source said that Jones would likely sign his deal on Monday. He will compete for playing time in a defensive back rotation in Mike Zimmer's secondary. I emphasize Mike Zimmer intentionally. When he says "we won't let this kid mess with our chemistry," I believe him. And there's no reason you shouldn't believe him too.