The Cincinnati Bengals officially released cornerback Trae Waynes on Monday.
Signed to a three-year deal worth up to $42 million in 2020, the former first-round selection played just five games for the Bengals. After sitting out all of 2020 because of a torn pec, Waynes missed most of 2021 with hamstring injuries.
According to Spotrac, the move saves Cincinnati $10.85 million in cap space.
We’ve made the following roster moves:
– Signed WR Trenton Irwin to a one-year contract for the 2022 season.
– Released CB Trae Waynes. pic.twitter.com/VhbKUV0v7D— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) March 21, 2022
Per Pro Football Reference, opponents completed 12 of just 17 targets against Waynes for 161 yards and three touchdowns last season. Although healthy heading into the playoffs, he didn’t record a single postseason snap on defense.
Waynes, who will turn 30 before the 2022 season starts, spent his first five years with the Minnesota Vikings. Even if he didn’t live up to expectations accompanying a No. 11 pick, the 6’0″ corner made 44 starts over his final three seasons.
After addressing a leaky offensive line by adding Ted Karras, Alex Cappa, and La’el Collins, the Bengals can now focus more on bolstering their secondary. They finished 26th in passing defense last season with a 93.1 opposing quarterback rating.
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