Bengals still looking to add cornerbacks after announcing 53-man roster

The Cincinnati Bengals set their 53-man roster on Saturday, but that doesn’t mean they have closed the door on other possible additions. A number of positions are still being scrutinized as the team examines their Injured/Reserve options, as well as the waiver wire.

Even though the team has three first round picks at the position, Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis noted that the club is keeping a particularly close eye on the cornerback position and guys who will be coming across the wire.

Former Detroit Lions corner, DeShawn Shead is an interesting name out there, as is David Amerson (formerly of Kansas City), but there are others. But, that isn’t the only route the Bengals could take at the position.

KeiVarae Russell, a guy the Bengals have had on the roster since 2016, was released on Saturday. Even so, the Bengals might try and find a way to get him back to Cincinnati.

In 13 games played with the Bengals, Russell has racked up 10 total tackles and an interception. He was a former third round pick by the Chiefs in 2016, but was released that same offseason before the Bengals scooped him off the waiver wire ahead of Week 1.

Russell wasn’t the only corner on the Bengals’ chopping block, though. Swingman defensive back, Josh Shaw, was also released, leaving more need for talent and experience in the group. If Shaw clears waivers, he’ll revert to IR as he is injured.

Here is how the Bengals’ cornerback group is currently comprised:

• Dre Kirkpatrick
• Darqueze Dennard
• William Jackson III
• Darius Phillips
• Tony McRae
• Davontae Harris

Harris is a likely candidate to move to IR as he has been hurt for much of the preseason.

Don’t be surprised if the Bengals make a move here, be it with a new face or a familiar one. As we said, this incarnation of the final roster might not be so “final”.