Stacy

Andrews

The Bengals could use the O-line depth.

The Bengals are down to seven healthy offensive line, and that’s before this weekend’s roster cuts.

Because the contract he signed in August was a “minimum salary benefit” deal, Tollefson isn’t even allowed to re-sign before the beginning of free agency. Andrews is still recovering from the pulmonary embolism that sent him to injured reserve in December. Both will be viewed as part-time players on the open market.

It’s a scary situation, but Andrews is expected to make a full recovery. One of the Giants’ main reserve linemen, Andrews appeared in nine games this season, starting three. Set to become a free agent, Andrews will turn 31 in June. He’ll compete for another backup job somewhere next summer.

He was deactivated for Sunday’s game against the Packers. Andrews, a backup for the Giants, is being treated for “pulmonary embolisms” that were thought to have originated in his legs. The Giants hope he’ll be released on Monday.

“This year, I’m there in it and going through everything,” Andrews said. “Getting a lot of reps, that’s the main thing.” Andrews is in the mix for the Birds’ starting right guard job, and has a head start in the battle with Nick Cole currently at center and Max Jean-Gilles recovering from lap-band surgery.

The Bengals will have their entire line intact, save for RT Willie Anderson. Stacy Andrews, a highly regarded prospect, will sub at right tackle. LT Levi Jones has reclaimed his starting role. It’s good news for Cincy’s offense.