Bengals ink free agent Jean-Gillis
Published 2:09 am Wednesday, August 3, 2011
GEORGETOWN, Ky. (AP) — The Bengals have signed free agent guard Max Jean-Gillis to a one-year deal on Tuesday night, the second time they’ve tried to add depth to their line in the past few days.
Jean-Gillis played for Philadelphia the past four seasons. He was a fourth-round draft pick and started 26 games in his career, including 10 last season.
He’ll be able to practice with the team on Thursday.
“Happy to have a job,” he said, after signing his contract. “It was very, very stressful. Just glad today was over and I got a deal done.”
Jean-Gillis became Cincinnati’s backup plan on the offensive line when guard Deuce Lutui agreed to a two-year deal, then showed up overweight and failed his physical.
Lutui ended up staying with Arizona on a one-year deal.
The Bengals are looking for a left guard. They’re giving Jean-Gillis a chance to win a job and get a longer deal.
“That’s what they’re saying — compete for the starting job and the future is in my hands,” he said.
The Bengals have Bobbie Williams at right guard. Jean-Gillis is open to moving to the left side.
“I prefer right, but I can play both,” he said. “I played both sides in Philly.”