Why did Bengals need to re-sign Brandon Tate?

In five seasons with the Bengals, Brandon Tate has 33 receptions, and seven kick returns of more than 40 yards.CINCINNATI -- Three days have passed since the Cincinnati Bengals opened their free agency period by re-signing receiver/returner specialist Brandon Tate, and there are still Bengals fans scratching their heads about why.

But that shouldn't be the case.

If there was ever an offseason for Cincinnati to bring back Tate on his customary one-year deal, this was it.

With very real uncertainty about the pre-free agency depth at the three positions Tate plays (receiver, and kick and punt returner), it made sense for the Bengals to quickly get him back under contract. Of course, depending…