James Harrison rumors: Bengals close to a deal with former Steeler

James Harrison could switch sides in an AFC North rivalry, as the Cincinnati Bengals are apparently interested in acquiring the longtime Steeler.

The four-time All Pro spent his entire career with Pittsburgh, going from an undrafted free agent to one of the league’s most menacing outside linebackers, but he wouldn’t take a pay cut, leading to the team releasing him. His search for a new home hasn’t been easy -- the Steelers aren’t interested, and the Ravens opted to sign Elvis Dumervil instead. But the Bengals have an opening at outside linebacker with Manny Lawson gone to the Buffalo Bills, and per Adam Schefter, are between signing Harrison and Karlos Dansby.

Harrison’s prolific career seems to make him the more attractive option, even if he isn’t going to win Defensive Player of the Year again in the twilight of his playing days. And Schefter writes that he’ll be an easier signing than Dansby -- the two should be in a similar price range. With the Steelers not ponying up to Harrison’s salary desires, the 34-year-old apparently wouldn’t have any problems with playing against them twice a year. He still has a few years left in the tank, as evidenced by a six-sack season in 2012.

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