The Cincinnati Bengals might very well be on the verge of moving on from one of their talented but troubled veterans. This report notes that Cincinnati has decided against picking up the 2018 option for cornerback Adam Jones, effectively releasing him on to the free agent market.
Adam Jones has been told Bengals won’t pick up his option but would like him back to compete as nickel and returner.
— Geoff Hobson (@GeoffHobsonCin) March 9, 2018
This moves saves Cincinnati $5.5 million against the 2018 cap.
Jones’ off-field issues are by now well known. But on the field, he’s proven to be more than a capable cornerback. Last season with the Bengals, Jones recorded 23 tackles, four passes defended and one interception in an injury-plagued campaign that saw him miss seven games. He has started each of the past 39 games in which he has appeared for the Bengals.
At 34 years old and with a history of character concerns, it’s highly unlikely Jones will be met for a solid market for his services. That leaves open the possibility of a return to Cincinnati.