Cincinnati Bengals sign C Jacob Bayer

Jacob Bayer's signing earns a C+ Contract Value Index (CVI), a middling verdict that reflects the modest financial commitment but underwhelming contextual fit for a Cincinnati team still rebuilding its offensive foundation. At $885K on a one-year deal, this is a replacement-level center acquisition — the kind of low-cost, depth-chart move clubs make when they're not confident in their incumbent or need a veteran anchor in a congested middle. The salary floor speak to zero guaranteed money and no multi-year commitment, a tell that the Bengals view Bayer as a short-term solution rather than a building block, which is prudent given his pedestrian production history. For a franchise sitting at 6-11 and out of playoff contention, spending minimal resources on interior line stability is defensible, but it doesn't move the needle on Cincinnati's competitive timeline — this is maintenance-level spending, not investment. The CVI reflects that calculus: you're getting a body who won't break the bank, but you're also not acquiring a proven starter who transforms protection schemes or elevates play-action efficiency. Expect Bayer to compete for snaps in camp with limited margin for error; the price tag suggests he's one foot out the door if anyone in the locker room emerges as a clearer long-term option.