The deals the Bengals reportedly struck in the first two days of free agency may have a massive impact on how they’ll play the game in 2024.

The reported agreement Ravens safety Geno Stone appears to have reconfigured their secondary. The expected arrival of Colts running back Zack Moss looks to usher in a more collaborative approach in the backfield. With the reported Mike Gesicki deal, Bengals head coach and play-caller Zac Taylor has the most prolific NFL pass-catching tight end in his six seasons and gives him the option of playing more multiple tight end sets.

At dinnertime Tuesday as the start of the NFL year at 4 p.m. Wednesday loomed, Bengals negotiators were still working the phones talking to agents of their own free agents, as well as others.

With a safety, running back, and tight end in the fold, defensive tackle is next on what is perceived to be the offseason wish list. That didn’t mean cornerbacks and offensive tackles were off the board (are they ever?) in what they view as an early stage of their roster building for the upcoming season.

The Bengals made a dent in their 17-man free agent class Monday when they locked up their best blocking and most seasoned tight end for three years in six-year vet Drew Sample.

That came on a day they agreed on a one-year deal for core special teamer/linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither, and back-up running back Trayveon Williams. They signed back-up tackle-guard Cody Ford on Saturday.