The Bengals did not apply the franchise brand to pass-rusher Carl Lawson, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. And although they did not mark him, the Bengals would like to sign a long-term contract with Lawson. Time is running out, however, as Lawson is scheduled to become a free agent when the new year of the league begins on March 17.
Lawson, 25, ranked 18th on CBS Sports’ senior writer Pete Prisco’s list of the 100 best players scheduled to join the free agency. During his first four seasons in the league, the 1.8m tall, 265-pound Lawson totaled 20 sacks, 81 tackles and 19 tackles by defeat. After starting in just three games during his first three seasons, Lawson joined the starting lineup in 2020. During his first year as a starter, the former Auburn Tiger recorded 5.5 sacks, 36 tackles and two forced fumbles.
“He’s one of the hardest guys I’ve ever played with,” Bengals’ defensive side Sam Hubbard said about Lawson during the season, via ESPN’s Ben Baby. “He keeps working on his game, keeps making progress and finding everything you can do to succeed. It is no surprise that he is playing very well.”
Although they are supposed to try to sign a long-term agreement with Lawson, the Bengals have other questions when it comes to their defense. Cornerbacks William Jackson III and Mackensie Alexander and linebacker Josh Bynes are also scheduled to become free agents. There are questions surrounding the future of defensive tackles Geno Atkins, an eight-time professional player who didn’t start in a single game in 2020.
Lawson must have a robust free agency if he reaches the open market. The Jets, Jaguars and Colts – three teams that could use a pass-rushing linebacker – could be possible landing sites for Lawson.