The Cincinnati Bengals lost one key member of their defensive line earlier Monday when it was announced that free agent Larry Ogunjobi had departed for the Chicago Bears. With fellow free agent BJ Hill also potentially on the move, the Bengals took action, signing Hill to a three-year deal worth $30 million, as reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter.

BJ Hill earned himself a payday from the Bengals following a solid year. Hill stands to make $15 million in year one. The re-signing of the NC State product certainly helps to soften the Larry Ogunjobi blow, as the veteran lineman signed a three-year contract with the Bears.

Related NewsArticle continues below
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) takes the field for the first quarter of the NFL Week 18 game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium.
Joe Burrow reveals disappointment with another Bengals primetime game vs Ravens
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) runs onto the field before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium.
Joe Burrow defends Trey Hendrickson amid contract holdout
Two mystery players in the middle, Joe Burrow and coach Zac Taylor around them, Cincinnati Bengals wallpaper in the background
Cincinnati Bengals 2 best trade targets to round out 2025 roster

Hill helped the Bengals field one of the league's better run defenses this past season, as he earned a solid 68.6 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus while recording six tackles for loss. Cincinnati's run defense, which ranked fifth in the league in yards allowed per game, will certainly benefit from Hill's presence over the next few years.

Thus far, the Bengals have prioritized the trenches on both sides of the ball, as they have brought in two free agent offensive lineman to aid in the protection of star quarterback Joe Burrow while retaining Hill, who they couldn't afford to lose after the departure of Ogunjobi.