The week before free agency begins can be a somber one. Players set to hit the open market typically hear from their teams one last time and get one of two sentiments in return: 

"We want you back, let's work something out."

"Best of luck with your future endeavors."   

Mike Hilton, one of the Cincinnati Bengals' best free agent signings in franchise history, hinted at him receiving the second statement on X/Twitter earlier this week.

New opportunities always present themselves ??

— Mike Hilton (@MikeHilton_28) March 3, 2025

Hilton's 31st birthday is Sunday, and while his tenacity against the run and passionate leadership has never faded, it was always unlikely for the Bengals to match what he could get in his final push for a major contract. It would not be a surprise for Hilton to land a deal with a new team this time next week.

He won't be alone in his exodus from Cincinnati. As the front office hones in on extending stars like Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase and getting younger and faster everywhere else on the roster with free agents from other clubs, a handful of other impending free agents are probably feeling like Hilton at the moment.   

B.J. Hill

Before he turns 30 next month, this is also going to be Hill's last real chance at cashing in on the open market. He re-upped with the Bengals in the early hours of legal tampering three years ago. As one of the top defensive tackles hitting the market, a deal from other team could come together just as quickly next week.

I think the Bengals wouldn't mind bringing Hill back for the right price, but that price isn't going to match the max offer that will be out there for him. There will be an emphasis to rebuild the defensive line. Giving Hill a raise isn't conducive with that plan.

Joseph Ossai

Similar theme here. Ossai was often buried in the d-line rotation even in the stretches when he was healthy enough to make a difference. The high ceiling he was drafted with never had a chance to be hit, but he's still young enough to convince another defense he can be a lottery ticket for them. 

Ossai should want to try his luck elsewhere even with a new defensive coordinator on staff now in Al Golden. He'll have a decent market as a value option at a position that's usually priced at a premium.  

Akeem Davis-Gaither

Another player I think the Bengals wouldn't mind retaining at the right price, but that price is likely inflated someplace else. Davis-Gaither signed on with Athletes First earlier this offseason in hopes to cash in for the first time in his career. His priorities are set.

I do think Golden, the coach who helped draft and develop him during his first two seasons, would be interested in bringing him back to compete for a starting gig with Germaine Pratt out the door soon. I just don't think the front office is going to compete with other offers.

Vonn Bell

Very little discussion is needed here. Bell was brought back last year because Lou Anarumo missed him dearly. He proceeded to be gradually benched despite Anarumo's original preference to have him on the field over second-year safety Jordan Battle.

Anarumo is now with the Indianapolis Colts, and it would not shock me if Bell followed him there, because all the goodwill he still had in Cincinnati this time last year has dried up.

Tee Higgins keeps his promise to Bengals fans as Cincinnati uses its final piece of leverage to reach a new contract

Higgins kept his word, but his week is far from over.