Training Camp Nears, and the Bengals’ Secondary Still Feels Incomplete Without Vonn Bell
As training camp draws closer, the Cincinnati Bengals’ secondary remains largely unchanged — a fact that’s causing concern among fans. With questions swirling around the safety position, it’s hard not to reminisce about more stable times in the backfield.
One name in particular keeps coming up: Vonn Bell. And with the veteran safety still available on the open market, it’s difficult not to wonder if a reunion in Cincinnati is the right move.
Vonn Bell Still Deserves a Roster Spot
Whether it’s in Cincinnati or elsewhere, Vonn Bell has earned a spot on a training camp roster.
Drafted in the second round by the New Orleans Saints in 2016, Bell quickly developed into a dependable starter. However, when his rookie deal ended, New Orleans couldn’t afford to keep him, paving the way for Bell’s first stint with the Bengals.
He wasted no time making an impact. Bell became a cornerstone of Lou Anarumo’s defense, logging over 1,000 defensive snaps in each of his first three seasons. His performance during Cincinnati’s Super Bowl run — highlighted by a critical interception in the AFC Championship Game against the Chiefs — solidified his status as a fan favorite.
But the relationship soured just as quickly. As Anarumo’s defensive unit regressed, Bell became expendable and departed for the Carolina Panthers in 2023. After a short and moderately successful season there, he returned to Cincinnati in 2024 to help stabilize a struggling secondary.
Unfortunately, the Bengals’ defense crumbled last season, ultimately leading to Anarumo’s exit. Bell, now 30, finds himself a free agent once again — and without a clear path back onto an NFL roster.
Still, Bell’s experience and leadership make him a valuable asset. While his days as a full-time starter may be behind him, he could thrive in a rotational role or as a mentor to younger players.
Cincinnati Could Use His Presence
The Bengals have done little to address a secondary that clearly underperformed last year. Pro Football Focus recently ranked the unit 25th in the league, citing a lack of offseason activity. It’s fair to argue that Bell, even in a limited role, would bring leadership and depth to a group that desperately needs both.
Bell remains one of the top available safeties in free agency and carries the kind of playoff experience that many teams covet. He’s not just a familiar face — he’s a proven one.
Whether it’s in stripes or another uniform, Vonn Bell deserves one more shot. Here’s hoping that shot comes in Cincinnati.
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