The Cincinnati Bengals have released Dre Kirkpatrick.

Kirkpatrick was a first round pick in 2012 out of Alabama. Kirkpatrick started six games at cornerback in 2019 before suffering a season-ending knee injury on Nov. 10.

"Dre was a part of the Bengals' organization for many years, and displayed passion, energy and competitiveness both on and off the field," Bengals coach Zac Taylor said in a statement. "We appreciate his many contributions to our team and community over the years, and wish him the best moving forward."

D.J. Reader has agreed to a four-year, $53 millions deal with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Reader is the now the highest paid nose tackle in the league with an average compensation per year of $13.25 million.

"I'm super excited, just really excited to get out there," said Reader. "They've got good things going. They had a rough year. Hopefully, I can be one of those pieces for them."

Reader was a fifth round pick by the Houston Texans in 2016 out of Clemson.

The Chicago Bears are focused on acquiring Andy Dalton or Nick Foles this offseason.

Both Dalton and Foles have played for either Matt Nagy or members of their coaching staff.

The Bears would like to add a veteran quarterback that can compete against Mitchell Trubisky for the starting quarterback position.

The Cincinnati Bengals have placed the franchise tag on A.J. Green.

Green suffered torn ligaments in his ankle during training camp and eventually missed the entire 2019 season.

Joe Burrow is flattered by comparisons to Tom Brady, but he isn't embracing them.

Burrow was asked about NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah's comments that Burrow and Brady share similar mechanics, Burrow demurred in an interview with the network.

"Please don't compare me to the best player of all time," Burrow told NFL Network. "Let me do my own thing. Don't do that to me, please."

The market for Andy Dalton appears to be taking shape with the Chicago Bears, Indianapolis Colts and New England Patriots reported as possible landing spots.

The Bears have maintained that Mitch Trubisky will be their starter, but the team also wants to add a veteran at the position.

The Patriots might be in need of a quarterback if Tom Brady leaves and the Chargers are planning for life after Philip Rivers.

The Cincinnati Bengals plan to use the franchise tag on A.J. Green, according to sources.

The team wants Green on the roster in 2020 whether it's via the tag or a long-term deal.

The tag is expected to be worth $18.5 million. The two sides have until July 15 to reach a long-term pact.

Green, who turns 32 in July, didn't play in 2019 after he tore multiple ligaments in his left ankle during the first practice of the preseason.