Thursday, February 17, 2000
Bengals: Booker signing 'sends message'
BY GEOFF HOBSON
The Cincinnati Enquirer
The Bengals' effort to start rebuilding their franchise at the new stadium on Elm and Plum streets goes right down Ezzard Charles Drive.
Defensive end Vaughn Booker, who grew up on Ezzard Charles, attended Taft High and played at the University of Cincinnati, signed a five-year deal with the Bengals on Wednesday, putting the club on the free-agent map.
Booker, who turns 32 a week from today, gives Cincinnati a seasoned starting left defensive end admired for his down-to-down intensity and production while playing in four playoff games for the Chiefs and Packers.
“This is a significant signing, because it's early and we got a quality guy who can play inside and outside,” Bengals defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau said. “It sends a message we're in this thing to improve.”
Booker's agent, Cincinnati-based Richard Katz, wouldn't divulge the deal, but those familiar with the talks said it's comparable to the four-year, $10 million contract Bengals backup nose tackle Kimo von Oelhoffen signed in Pittsburgh.
It was a big enough hit that the Bengals pulled their offer to Chiefs defensive tackle Tom Barndt after he visited Wednesday, and turned their focus to a starting cornerback. They get a chance today when they host DeRon Jenkins of the Ravens.
But Jenkins is a busy man. He has been to San Diego, where the Chargers reportedly have offered $3 million a year, and is also pursued by Kansas City, New Orleans and Dallas.
“The way this thing is shaking loose for us is we'll probably use the money to try for players at other positions,” Bengals President Mike Brown said. “(Booker) helps us with his versatility.”
Chiefs safety Reggie Tongue also visited Wednesday on his way to see the Bears, but he's probably too pricey for the Bengals as they try to to wrap up two more free agents for about $4 million in salary-cap count for this season.
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