Cornerback Nate Clements, a Shaker Heights, Ohio native who played college football with the Buckeyes, has returned to his home state after being dumped by the 49ers.
Clements, per multiple reports, has agreed to terms with the Bengals.
He fills the void created by the departure of Johnathan Joseph to the Texans. On Friday, defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer sounded off about the loss of Joseph, and Zimmer openly wondered where a replacement would be found.
Clements was the crown jewel of the 2007 free-agent class, signing an eight-year, $80 million deal that was pushed to a 10-year average with a funny-money final season. In the end, Clements played out only half of the contract.
He’ll turn 32 during the season, and he’s a step down from Joseph. But he fills a need for the Bengals, probably at a bargain price.
A 10-year veteran, Clements spent six seasons in Buffalo before signing with the 49ers.