The Cincinnati Bengals released veteran defensive tackle Sam Adams on Monday after signing with the team last season. The Bengals originally brought the massive Adams in to plug the front of their line to improve their run defense. The Bengals finished the season 15th in the league on rush defense. Still, Adams was able to start all 16 games for Cincinnati, recording 25 tackles and two sacks.

"Releasing Sam is a very difficult decision, but the timing is such that it provides Sam the opportunity to obtain a roster spot with another team," said Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis.

The Bengals also signed free agent defensive tackle Kenderick Allen to a one-year deal. Allen, entering his fifth year, played in two games with the Green Bay Packers last season before being placed on the injured reserve with a foot injury.