Bengals Sign Ex Rams DB Nick Scott in Free Agency

The Los Angeles Rams have had a quiet first few days of free agency - and have now lost a productive player on the back end.

The Cincinnati Bengals have signed former Rams safety Nick Scott to a three-year, $12 million contract, per ESPN.

Scott, who visited with the Bengals on Thursday, made progress on a deal that was ultimately reached Friday. The Rams, who are battling salary cap issues, had hoped to retain Scott's services, according to KRPC2.

A seventh-round pick in 2019, Scott started all but one game for Los Angeles this past season, finishing with 86 tackles, five passes defended, two interceptions and two forced fumbles, all career highs.

The 5-11, 201-pound Scott missed the season finale due to a shoulder injury but drew praise from coach Sean McVay in the process ... and illustrates why the Rams were so keen on bringing him back.

"You talk about a guy that's been a stud in so many ways for our football team as a leader, as a player," McVay said. "Can't say enough good things about Nick Scott."

But now, Scott has moved on - and could be "a stud in so many ways" for the Bengals come next season.

You can follow Daniel Flick on Twitter @DFlickDraft