Bengals: Key offseason dates for franchise tags, free agency and draft

All the key dates to know for the Bengals this offseason.

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The Cincinnati Bengals face another critical offseason after a rebuild provided big-time results faster than expected. Now, the task is retaining key players and resetting the roster at positions of need via free agency and the draft.

As such, here’s a look at some of the key offseason dates to know.

Feb. 22-March 8: Window for teams to apply franchise and transition tags. Safety Jessie Bates is a prime candidate if the parties can’t agree on an extension.

March 1-7: Scouting Combine.

March 14-16: Legal-tampering window for free agency, where the Bengals can begin contacting free agents (likely offensive linemen, all things considered).

March 16, 4 p.m. ET: Free agency opens, first day of the new league year.

April 18: Teams with returning head coaches can start offseason workout programs.

April 28-30: 2022 NFL draft in Las Vegas, where the Bengals, as of this writing, will hit the podium 31st.

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