The Bengals and free agent safety Usama Young met on Friday, Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer reported.
The Browns released Young on Tuesday.
Young, who turns 28 in May, intercepted a career-best three passes for Cleveland last season. He made starts at both safety spots in his two seasons with the Browns.
The Bengals do not have a clear-cut starter at strong safety. Chris Crocker, who finished the season with the job, is an unrestricted free agent.
Young (6-0, 200) began his NFL career in New Orleans (2007-2010). He played collegiately at Kent State.