Dre Kirkpatrick re-signs with Cincinnati Bengals
By Adam Stocker
The Bengals are bringing back cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick.
Cincinnati re-signed cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick on the first day of NFL free agency. After seeing offensive linemen Kevin Zeitler and Andrew Whitworth sign for more money elsewhere. The Bengals were able to lock up the former Alabama product and make sure another one of the players they drafted did not leave as a free agent, according to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport.
The #Bengals are keeping CB Dre Kirkpatrick, source said. They fought for him and get it done.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2017
The fifth-year pro was drafted by the Bengals in the first round of the 2012 draft, 17th overall. Over the past two season, Kirkpatrick has been the Bengals starter at cornerback. In his first three professional seasons, Kirkpatrick was used by the Bengals as a nickel and dime back in their sub packages.
No official terms have been released, but CBS’ Jason La Canfora reports that the 27-year old Kirkpatrick is set to receive a five-year contract worth around $10 million annually.
Bengals CB Dre Kirkpatrick announces he's staying in Cincy. Been reporting since Wed he had $10M on table there. Smart to take it
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) March 9, 2017
The Bengals have very good depth at corner compared to other teams. Kirkpatrick starts opposite of Adam “Pacman” Jones. Former first round pick Darqueze Dennard serves as the Bengals third corner.
Kirkpatrick tied a career high with three interceptions last season. In addition to the three interceptions, Kirkpatrick also broke up 10 passes and recorded 46 tackles. In his five-year career, Kirkpatrick has intercepted nine passes, returning two for touchdowns.
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However, Kirkpatrick’s play is not without its critics. According to Pro Football Focus, Kirkpatrick was the most penalized corner in the NFL over the past two seasons.