Cincinnati Bengals Offseason Thread: Protect Joe Burrow [Archive] - RedsZone.com - Cincinnati Reds Fans' Home for Baseball Discussion

RiverRat13

02-15-2022, 01:26 PM

If the Bengals get just a average O-line, I think they steamroll the league. Not only would Burrow have more time, but Mixon gets better blocking as well. I hear a lot of people saying to dump everything into the O line, but I think that’s a mistake. Get the line up to league average. Maybe a tick above. It’s unacceptable right now. Do that. Get Burrow another target to hit and make the defense even better. IMO approach the O line like the D last year. Mid tier to high mid tier FA. And maybe bring a top tier guy to the D and TE or WR.

Wanted to bring this discussion over here. Last offseason the goal seemed to be to get to average but they fell short and ended up being bad. The better idea this offseason is to attempt to put together a good line and if you fall short and are "only" average, then you are still good to go.

WVRed

02-15-2022, 04:28 PM

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220215/151b43bb3f34cc9d84328929c4434941.jpg

Overkill or not?

KoryMac5

02-16-2022, 07:26 AM

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220215/151b43bb3f34cc9d84328929c4434941.jpg

Overkill or not?

Nothing is overkill with this line it really depends on who they sign in FA.

If you sign a Daniels or a Laken Tomlison or both it opens up the draft a bit...

I threw this together quick before work.

FA plan:

Resign:
Bates (tag)
Uzomah
Hill
Reif
Larry O
Apple

FA brought in:
Daniels LG
Laken Tomlison RG

Draft
Zion Johnson
Ed Ingram

Defense: Chandler Jones and a corner

Mike Brown is getting old...like really old...I could see him going all in in the last few years of his life similar to what Hess did with the Jets.

Big Red Smokey

02-16-2022, 07:33 AM

My problem with drafting any linemen is the team has proven it cannot adequately develop any of them.

May as well sign them off FA.

KoryMac5

02-16-2022, 08:38 AM

My problem with drafting any linemen is the team has proven it cannot adequately develop any of them.

May as well sign them off FA.

Dehner brought that up on his podcast...we suck at selecting offensive lineman...the FA market seems to have a few excellent options but many mediocre to good options...Bengals do really well at identifying FA's who have potential.

RiverRat13

02-16-2022, 08:57 AM

I don't think they can afford both Hill and Larry O. I'd choose Hill.

I suspect Apple will be cheap to re-sign. The guy is not liked around the league.

KoryMac5

02-16-2022, 09:00 AM

I don't think they can afford both Hill and Larry O. I'd choose Hill.

I suspect Apple will be cheap to re-sign. The guy is not liked around the league.

That is the hard thing with the Bengals, is they put numbers on guys and usually won't overpay...Waynes and Hendrickson are the exceptions.

Larry O would probably be easier just due to injury...Hill I think will be tougher as someone may overpay for his services. I could see Jax or someone wanting him and overpaying.

KoryMac5

02-16-2022, 12:23 PM

Goodberry talked about 2 guys today...Daniels and Corbett...both Tier 2 and 3 guys that could come in and play right away. I think you could sign both.

Raimann intrigues me as far as a draft prospect goes if he can keep weight...I also like Penning from Northern Iowa who is massive and very physical. Those guys could be there in 1st or 2nd rounds.

membengal

02-17-2022, 04:08 PM

Burrow has apparently had enough time off…

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CaF0qjQJctf/?utm_medium=copy_link

Redsfaithful

02-17-2022, 05:20 PM

Burrow has apparently had enough time off…

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CaF0qjQJctf/?utm_medium=copy_link

This guy is such a beast.

KoryMac5

02-18-2022, 11:15 AM

This guy is such a beast.

Hopefully Jackson Carmen subscribes to his page...

Old school 1983

02-18-2022, 11:23 AM

Wanted to bring this discussion over here. Last offseason the goal seemed to be to get to average but they fell short and ended up being bad. The better idea this offseason is to attempt to put together a good line and if you fall short and are "only" average, then you are still good to go.

I agree. I see people wanting to go after extremely expensive guys like Armstead. While he’s awesome, I think the line massively improves with a guy a tick or 2 below him and the remaining money put elsewhere. I really want to see the D taken to the next level, no TE drop off, and I’d really like to see a pesky receiver added to the group of the big 3 studs

KoryMac5

02-18-2022, 02:36 PM

The Cincinnati Bengals are expected to show interest in OL Orlando Brown Jr, if he does in fact hit the open market, per source.

Per twitter

Sign Brown...sign a guard...draft a guard or center...move Williams to RT

WOW if it happens

WVRed

02-18-2022, 06:32 PM

Per twitter

Sign Brown...sign a guard...draft a guard or center...move Williams to RT

WOW if it happens

KC will franchise him. Not happening.

I’m not expecting a signing that will break the bank. Even if they do, other teams will be fighting for the same players. Plus if the Bengals get into a bidding war two teams with more cap space can offer better weather and no state income tax (Dolphins and Jaguars)

I’m thinking Connor Williams and Morgan Moses. Both make the line better but won’t command top dollar.

Wonderful Monds

02-18-2022, 07:49 PM

KoryMac5

02-18-2022, 09:01 PM

KC will franchise him. Not happening.

I’m not expecting a signing that will break the bank. Even if they do, other teams will be fighting for the same players. Plus if the Bengals get into a bidding war two teams with more cap space can offer better weather and no state income tax (Dolphins and Jaguars)

I’m thinking Connor Williams and Morgan Moses. Both make the line better but won’t command top dollar.

KC has some tough choices if they franchise him at 16.5…long term deal helps them spread out the hit. The tweet says the Bengals are interested which means they are willing to spend this off-season which is good news.

They usually spend on 2nd contract players so Daniel’s, Williams, and others fit the bill. Morgan Moses graded out fairly well by pff standards so he could be in play.

I also hear rumors Becton from the Jets may be available. Pollack knows him pretty well.

WVRed

02-18-2022, 09:20 PM

When’s the last time the Dolphins or Jags made the Super Bowl

Both have young QBs, cap space, new coaches (one of which has a Super Bowl ring) and in the case of the Jaguars draft capital.

That’s also not factoring in quality of life in Florida, education if you have kids, or nightlife such as Miami. Plus as mentioned earlier, no state income tax. You could also add Vegas to this list too.

I love this team and I am excited for the future but realistically while this team has the Super Bowl to sell it’s a lot harder to make it back (unless your last name is Brady).

KoryMac5

02-18-2022, 10:55 PM

Both have young QBs, cap space, new coaches (one of which has a Super Bowl ring) and in the case of the Jaguars draft capital.

That’s also not factoring in quality of life in Florida, education if you have kids, or nightlife such as Miami. Plus as mentioned earlier, no state income tax. You could also add Vegas to this list too.

I love this team and I am excited for the future but realistically while this team has the Super Bowl to sell it’s a lot harder to make it back (unless your last name is Brady).

That was the issue with not making it back for many teams the Brady factor...AFC teams couldn't get past TB 12...so he skewed the numbers

I think over the next few years you are going to see more players pick based on who they think they can win with...do you want to be part of a rebuild in Jax or Miami or do you want to be with a contending team.

If the $$$ are close most guys are going to go where they have a chance to get a ring.

DJ

WVRed

02-19-2022, 12:06 PM

That was the issue with not making it back for many teams the Brady factor...AFC teams couldn't get past TB 12...so he skewed the numbers

I think over the next few years you are going to see more players pick based on who they think they can win with...do you want to be part of a rebuild in Jax or Miami or do you want to be with a contending team.

If the $$$ are close most guys are going to go where they have a chance to get a ring.

DJ

Probably depends on the player. You had Joe Thuney who everyone thought would take a hometown discount to come back to Ohio and he signed with KC to prove your point.

You had Andrew Norwell who took the money in Jacksonville and they inevitably collapsed.

I’m not saying the Bengals are going to lose out in FA. I think they will improve the line but I’m saying don’t discount FAs signing for more money elsewhere plus it doesn’t meet what they’ve done in the past in betting on players with second year contracts.

UKFlounder

02-19-2022, 12:14 PM

Will ownership matter?

I can’t imagine players bring happy with Stephen Ross right now. Even Khan might be undesirable, though not like Ross.

I know Mike Brown is not the greatest, but compared to Ross, he probably seems at least respectable.

KoryMac5

02-19-2022, 12:17 PM

Players on my wish list:
Defense

Emmanula Ogbah Miami DE
Akiem Hicks Chicago DT

Offense

Laken Tomlinson OG SF
Connor Williams OG Dallas
James Daniels OG Chicago
Ben Jones C TENN
Austin Corbett G Rams
Alex Cappa G TB
Ted Karras G NE

I would imagine the Bengals would target a few on this list...

membengal

02-21-2022, 09:18 AM

KoryMac5

02-21-2022, 10:10 AM

Geoff Hobson remains a crazy person. His latest mailbag…(starts with a question about biggest team needs in off-season and somehow does not mention o-line). I know it shouldn’t bother me but given he is one of the faces of the team for better or worse it is constantly annoying…

https://twitter.com/geoffhobsoncin/status/1495735586690322433?s=21

Hobson's niche has always been fluff pieces...his takes in Hobson's choice more often then not are wrong.

I do think it was interesting that they feel Carmen is better suited to the left side...

membengal

02-21-2022, 03:03 PM

Mike Hilton out here doing work...(supposedly Tunsil might be available via trade this off-season)...

https://twitter.com/KingTunsil78/status/1495831146839646214?s=20&t=c38pi_S7nEfBQW_FBatQZg

KoryMac5

02-21-2022, 05:30 PM

Mike Hilton out here doing work...(supposedly Tunsil might be available via trade this off-season)...

https://twitter.com/KingTunsil78/status/1495831146839646214?s=20&t=c38pi_S7nEfBQW_FBatQZg

I like the effort but man 26.1 cap hit on Tunsil…

I do think the Bengals trade their first for an established lineman if they can get him. I still think Becton is in play.

Sea Ray

02-21-2022, 05:44 PM

I like the effort but man 26.1 cap hit on Tunsil…

I do think the Bengals trade their first for an established lineman if they can get him. I still think Becton is in play.

I don't think the Bengals would take that hit. Signing bonus, restructure and all is on Houston, I believe

https://torotimes.com/2022/02/14/houston-texans-laremy-tunsil-tradecin/

https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/houston-texans/laremy-tunsil-18961/

membengal

02-21-2022, 05:45 PM

Correct. Houston bears that - not the team acquiring him

KoryMac5

02-22-2022, 07:25 AM

Correct. Houston bears that - not the team acquiring him

Yes you are right he ends up at 10 million guaranteed...I think the Bengals 1 is up for grabs for an established lineman.

WVRed

02-22-2022, 10:16 AM

Sounds like Quenton Nelson is the popular name being floated today.

Sea Ray

02-22-2022, 11:21 AM

Sounds like Quenton Nelson is the popular name being floated today.

I wouldn't think the Colts would let him go

membengal

02-22-2022, 11:59 AM

Sounds like Quenton Nelson is the popular name being floated today.

Was from a fake account. Not a thing.

membengal

02-22-2022, 01:52 PM

Anecdotally, season ticket sales appear brisk…

https://twitter.com/lndspatterson/status/1496174672475566083?s=21

Redsfaithful

02-22-2022, 04:20 PM

Anecdotally, season ticket sales appear brisk…

https://twitter.com/lndspatterson/status/1496174672475566083?s=21

Nice, get it sold out and loud for the season. Will mean less yellow and black for the Steelers and less visiting fans in general, which is great.

bucksfan2

02-22-2022, 04:40 PM

Good for them for selling out the season. I had thought they would never sell out a season again. The at home experience is just so nice and easy.

My buddies and I went for years, then life got in the way. Kids soccer is normally played on Sundays after noon so I would miss a lot of games.

membengal

02-22-2022, 09:08 PM

Well, friends, I figured, screw it- life is way too short - so I bought two season tickets just now. Life-long dream fulfilled. North end zone. Will get back for as many as I can, and sell the rest, hopefully to Bengals fans. Without Joe Burrow, I am 100% certain I am not typing any of those words...

Wonderful Monds

02-23-2022, 03:49 PM

traderumor

02-23-2022, 03:56 PM

"I really want to play for the Bengals, but, ah, Ohio has an income tax." If that's a deal breaker, all other things being equal, someone with that on their checklist for 4% of millions is a buffoon.

And I'm an accountant. Life is too short for that type of "business decision."

membengal

02-23-2022, 04:40 PM

BENGALS TALK ��@BengalsTalk·43mWatched the Jessie Bates interview on @nflnetwork and my takeaways:

•He wants to remain in Cincinnati
•He doesn’t have to be the highest paid at his position
•He doesn’t want to be franchise tagged
•He is an impressive person, still can’t believe he is only 24 years old

Todd Gack

02-24-2022, 09:19 AM

Am I the only one who won't be upset if Jesse doesn't resign here? I feel like the guy went missing for most of the regular season and then had played well for 3 games in the playoffs and a lot of our fans are irrationally attaching themselves to this guy. Tag the guy this year but man, I'm not sure about spending a lot of money on him when we know who else we have to sign. I mean, outside of the obvious of everyone on offense, we forget guys like Logan Wilson, who I view as more important, are going to be looking at big paydays right now too.

membengal

02-24-2022, 12:02 PM

He's excellent. He was the key to their secondary being so damn deceptive late in the year and in the playoffs. He would leave a massive hole on this defense. He's still just 24.

Redsfaithful

02-24-2022, 01:44 PM

Bates would be a huge loss for the defense.

KoryMac5

02-24-2022, 03:12 PM

Todd Gack

02-24-2022, 03:40 PM

Agreed it would be a massive loss... Bates is the QB of this defense plus a leader in the locker room...a dozen team would be lining up for his services if he left.

The entire secondary was new except for him and Bell most likely took Bates some time to adjust to that...once he got his footing he showed how good he is in the playoffs. If you can get him at a cost that works for player and the team you do it.

That's fine. Be prepared to suffer somehwere else. He was playing no where near his contract for vast majority of the season. can't let a few games blind you to his value to the team. I think we have a lot of recency bias going on. If we don't make the playoffs, most are saying he's not worth it. I just feel like we get so emotionally wrapped up in some of our players that we often inflate how good they are.

Redsfaithful

02-24-2022, 04:15 PM

That's fine. Be prepared to suffer somehwere else. He was playing no where near his contract for vast majority of the season. can't let a few games blind you to his value to the team. I think we have a lot of recency bias going on. If we don't make the playoffs, most are saying he's not worth it. I just feel like we get so emotionally wrapped up in some of our players that we often inflate how good they are.

His playoff performance is part of the picture though, it shouldn't be discounted or dismissed.

The guy that hurts from an emotional point of view is probably Uzomah. I think it was Liscow on Twitter who was talking about how good Burrow is from 10-19 yards down the field and middle of the field. They need a high end TE to really take advantage of that.

KoryMac5

02-24-2022, 04:37 PM

That's fine. Be prepared to suffer somehwere else. He was playing no where near his contract for vast majority of the season. can't let a few games blind you to his value to the team. I think we have a lot of recency bias going on. If we don't make the playoffs, most are saying he's not worth it. I just feel like we get so emotionally wrapped up in some of our players that we often inflate how good they are.

I think it's a fair point that he did not play up to expectations the majority of the year however if your going to make that point you can't throw out 2020 where he graded out 1st at his position according to PFF. Is he the best in the league no...but he is not asking to be paid like that either. I think the Bengals tag or sign him to a 4 yr deal.

Todd Gack

02-24-2022, 04:44 PM

His playoff performance is part of the picture though, it shouldn't be discounted or dismissed.

The guy that hurts from an emotional point of view is probably Uzomah. I think it was Liscow on Twitter who was talking about how good Burrow is from 10-19 yards down the field and middle of the field. They need a high end TE to really take advantage of that.

Meh. Bates' named wasn't mentioned once in the KC game until his deflection that led to an INT in OT. Again, I'm not saying his playoff performance should be dismissed. But I think it's worth noting that not many would say he's worth his contract if it weren't for the playoffs. I think people over-inflate playoff performances because it's a SSS. We've had multiple conversations on here throughout the year about Bates' worth until the playoffs. He underperformed most of the year as a whole.

Time will tell.

Todd Gack

02-24-2022, 04:45 PM

I thought this stat was amazing:

Had the Bengals missed the playoffs, Bates would’ve entered the offseason after not playing his best. PFF graded him with a 56.2 during the regular season. The perception of the soon-to-be 25-year-old would be vastly different had he not strung together a tremendous stretch of postseason games. He had more interceptions (2) and passes defensed (6) in the playoffs than he had in the entire regular season, which seems to validate the jump in grade.

https://www.cincyjungle.com/2022/2/16/22936823/jessie-bates-was-bengals-highest-graded-player-during-playoff-run

Tony Cloninger

02-24-2022, 05:38 PM

Nice, get it sold out and loud for the season. Will mean less yellow and black for the Steelers and less visiting fans in general, which is great.

Don’t bengals fans sell these tickets to Steelers fans because it’s too much cash to pass up?

Rdirtypirates

02-24-2022, 05:43 PM

That's fine. Be prepared to suffer somehwere else. He was playing no where near his contract for vast majority of the season. can't let a few games blind you to his value to the team. I think we have a lot of recency bias going on. If we don't make the playoffs, most are saying he's not worth it. I just feel like we get so emotionally wrapped up in some of our players that we often inflate how good they are.

He was the best defender for a Super Bowl team, and by the way the last three games are the ones that mattered. After so many years of having players and teams not show up in big games, we have someone show up big, and he isn't worth it because he had a ok regular season which is an anomaly, if you look at his other seasons. This man needs to be paid, and it doesnt mean you have to suffer somewhere else. He was playing no where near what contract the one that was 4yrs and less than5million in money. He definitely lived up to that contract.

Rdirtypirates

02-24-2022, 05:50 PM

WVRed

02-24-2022, 06:55 PM

His playoff performance is part of the picture though, it shouldn't be discounted or dismissed.

The guy that hurts from an emotional point of view is probably Uzomah. I think it was Liscow on Twitter who was talking about how good Burrow is from 10-19 yards down the field and middle of the field. They need a high end TE to really take advantage of that.

I’m in a Bengals Facebook group and they are pretty emotionally attached to Uzomah calling him the heart and soul of the team.

Sorry but from a business decision I think he needs to walk. There’s other options available and making emotional decisions based on this Super Bowl run would set this team back to the 90s again.

If Uzomah does walk three options I’d like to see:

1. Mike Gesicki (not a blocker but a receiving threat who could line up as a WR)

2. Jalen Wydermyer
3. Any or Jeremy Ruckert, Jake Ferguson, or Cole Turner

KoryMac5

02-24-2022, 08:13 PM

Bengals being linked to another FA lineman Bozeman from the Ravens.

KoryMac5

02-24-2022, 08:15 PM

I’m in a Bengals Facebook group and they are pretty emotionally attached to Uzomah calling him the heart and soul of the team.

Sorry but from a business decision I think he needs to walk. There’s other options available and making emotional decisions based on this Super Bowl run would set this team back to the 90s again.

If Uzomah does walk three options I’d like to see:

1. Mike Gesicki (not a blocker but a receiving threat who could line up as a WR)
2. Jalen Wydermyer
3. Any or Jeremy Ruckert, Jake Ferguson, or Cole Turner

Uzomah is going to have a limited market I could see him coming back at a reasonable cost to the team. The Bengals always put numbers on guys…I would imagine they would offer a 3 year deal at around 7 per…

Redsfaithful

02-25-2022, 01:56 AM

Don’t bengals fans sell these tickets to Steelers fans because it’s too much cash to pass up?

that's fine, paying more than box office will still result in fewer coming over

RiverRat13

02-25-2022, 10:39 AM

Bengals being linked to another FA lineman Bozeman from the Ravens.

From the guys on Twitter who know more football than me, Bozeman was a great pass protector last year but his lack of athleticism makes him a poor fit for the Bengals wide zone running scheme.

KoryMac5

02-25-2022, 12:08 PM

From the guys on Twitter who know more football than me, Bozeman was a great pass protector last year but his lack of athleticism makes him a poor fit for the Bengals wide zone running scheme.

Can play Guard or Center has improved as a blocker each year, doesn’t miss games. He fits what the Bengals like to do in FA. It’s fun to see us be linked to FA’s.

Hillsdale87

02-25-2022, 04:01 PM

Uzomah is going to have a limited market I could see him coming back at a reasonable cost to the team. The Bengals always put numbers on guys…I would imagine they would offer a 3 year deal at around 7 per…

Ian Thomas, who is bad, just got a pretty big contract. If that's the market for TEs, I have a hard time seeing Uzomah back unfortunately

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

KoryMac5

02-25-2022, 04:40 PM

Ian Thomas, who is bad, just got a pretty big contract. If that's the market for TEs, I have a hard time seeing Uzomah back unfortunately

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yep Carolina just reset the market with that contract...ball is in CJ's court now.

Kingspoint

02-25-2022, 08:08 PM

Can play Guard or Center has improved as a blocker each year, doesnÂ’t miss games. He fits what the Bengals like to do in FA. ItÂ’s fun to see us be linked to FAÂ’s.

...doesn't commit penalties,...11th highest overall grade among Centers last season,...the right age where he can be an effective Starter for the next 7 seasons, gave up only 2 sacks last season, steals an asset from a Division Rival, knows the Baltimore Defensive scheme better than anyone currently on the Bengals which is a fantastic asset to have for the Center of your team,...can get him for 4 years, somewhere between $26M-$36M, leaving plenty of room to get a RG identical to him for the same price. LT's in drafts are a premium. RT's are not. They also get paid in FA half as much. They fall to the bottom of the 1st Rd and into the 2nd Round. The RT we take with our 1st RD pick can start out at RG and move over whenever injuries or performance dictate a move to do so. So, adding the BAL C, an equal RG, our 1st pick being a RT, our hurt RT coming back, and that should be all we need for completely revamping the OL. We still have last year's drafted G, last year's LG FA, and of course our LT.

Kingspoint

02-25-2022, 08:47 PM

Ian Thomas, who is bad, just got a pretty big contract. If that's the market for TEs, I have a hard time seeing Uzomah back unfortunately

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

To say, "Ian Thomas is bad", is a statement made by someone who only looks at his football card.

Last time I looked, a TE is as much, if not more, a blocker, than a Receiver. Carolina understands this and paid Hunter, one of the best blocking TE's in the NFL, the money he deserved. Carolina also needs to improve their Offensive Line as it took a huge hit the last couple of years in FA. If you didn't notice, George Kittle spent most of last season, blocking, not running pass-patterns. That only went up in the playoffs as he was rarely thrown to. For any team that wants to emphasize the run, then the TE's #1 duty, #2 duty and #3 duty, is to block. Whenever a TE is drafted in the NFL, he spends his entire first season learning how to block. He doesn't focus on pass patterns until his second season, which is why they dont' start being effective as a Receiver until his 3rd season as he needs to prove that he's effective as a blocker AND pass-protector (the things a TE does to pass-protect), first and foremost. Carolina is a run-first team with a lot of short passes and screens. They need a very good blocking TE to run it.

Hillsdale87

02-26-2022, 08:47 AM

To say, "Ian Thomas is bad", is a statement made by someone who only looks at his football card.

Last time I looked, a TE is as much, if not more, a blocker, than a Receiver. Carolina understands this and paid Hunter, one of the best blocking TE's in the NFL, the money he deserved. Carolina also needs to improve their Offensive Line as it took a huge hit the last couple of years in FA. If you didn't notice, George Kittle spent most of last season, blocking, not running pass-patterns. That only went up in the playoffs as he was rarely thrown to. For any team that wants to emphasize the run, then the TE's #1 duty, #2 duty and #3 duty, is to block. Whenever a TE is drafted in the NFL, he spends his entire first season learning how to block. He doesn't focus on pass patterns until his second season, which is why they dont' start being effective as a Receiver until his 3rd season as he needs to prove that he's effective as a blocker AND pass-protector (the things a TE does to pass-protect), first and foremost. Carolina is a run-first team with a lot of short passes and screens. They need a very good blocking TE to run it.

It's a statement made by somebody who actually pays attention. Ian Thomas graded out at 52.1 on PFF, good for 69 of 73 TEs. He's a decent pass blocker, a bad run blocker, and a terrible receiver. If the Bengals gave that contract to Drew Sample we would all be confused for good reason.

It's a terrible contract, and CJ's agent had to be thrilled to see it.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

KoryMac5

02-26-2022, 10:23 AM

It's a statement made by somebody who actually pays attention. Ian Thomas graded out at 52.1 on PFF, good for 69 of 73 TEs. He's a decent pass blocker, a bad run blocker, and a terrible receiver. If the Bengals gave that contract to Drew Sample we would all be confused for good reason.

It's a terrible contract, and CJ's agent had to be thrilled to see it.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Agreed he is now the 16th highest paid TE in the league...not sure what the Panthers were thinking on this deal. Uzomah will be pushing into the 8 million per season realm which may be high for the Bengals.

WVRed

02-26-2022, 10:52 AM

Here’s my mock assuming the Bengals take care of the O-line in FA:
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220226/e4a8d4ade4256960ba35128bd63c05d0.jpg

WVRed

02-28-2022, 12:25 PM

Just saw the Saints picked up a London game.

I really hope the NFL doesn’t screw Louisiana residents out of Burrow and Chases homecoming.

Todd Gack

02-28-2022, 11:27 PM

Just saw the Saints picked up a London game.

I really hope the NFL doesn’t screw Louisiana residents out of Burrow and Chases homecoming.

The NFL knows better.

Todd Gack

02-28-2022, 11:31 PM

IMO, the best thing we can pickup in FA outside of a quality OL is a pass catching TE. The offense would be lethal and would make the departure of Boyd a little softer when he leaves.

KoryMac5

03-01-2022, 08:06 PM

Pac-Man Jones said he has heard Ryan Jensen to the Bengals…not sure who his source is but I would take Jensen on a 3 yr deal.

membengal

03-02-2022, 08:18 AM

He read it in PFF which had an article projecting landing spots and contracts for free agents. He won’t admit it, but that’s what happened. He has no source.

KoryMac5

03-02-2022, 08:34 AM

He read it in PFF which had an article projecting landing spots and contracts for free agents. He won’t admit it, but that’s what happened. He has no source.

I saw that on twitter as well....I can just imagine PacMan up late partying at 3am reading PFF in an alcohol induced haze and then forgetting the source the next day due to the loss of brain cells. Uhhh it was a little birdy....

I know Baltimore supposedly wants Jensen back bad which is why they are willing to let Bozeman walk...

WVRed

03-04-2022, 11:25 AM

Already seeing Buckeye fans pushing for the Bengals to trade Tyler Boyd and take or trade up for Chris Olave after the combine yesterday. Seems like homers come out in full force every year for the Buckeyes come draft time.

I have zero doubt Olave will be at minimum a quality starter in the NFL with a pro bowl ceiling. That said, the Bengals have other needs than wide receiver to take anyone in the first three rounds if any.

KoryMac5

03-04-2022, 11:34 AM

I have seen Munford mocked to us in a few drafts but later around Rd 3...he was the 1st OSU guy that I saw connected.

Bengals met with a few lineman yesterday notably Sean Ryhan from UCLA and Jamaree Salyer from GA...both stated they were happy with how the Bengals approached each interview.

WVRed

03-04-2022, 01:24 PM

Ohayou

03-04-2022, 01:36 PM

Lots of WR's I like this year. Alec Pierce really surprised me yesterday. Christian Watson is an intriguing prospect. Still, it's a position way down the list IMO. If they upgrade the O-line via FA, then I'd prioritize CB>DL>TE=S in the draft.

My 1st round targets at #31 (post Day 1):

OL Zion Johnson
OL Trevor Penning
OL Bernhard Raimann
TE Trey McBride
DL Travon Walker
DL DeMarvin Leal
CB Trent McDuffie
CB Kyler Gordon
CB Roger McCreary
CB Andrew Booth Jr.
CB Kaiir Elam
CB Derion Kendrick

Linderbaum would be perfect, but I have a hard time seeing him fall to 31, even for a center prospect.

KoryMac5

03-04-2022, 02:25 PM

Good news is that Tyler Linderbaums hands measured well below average which is causing his draft stock to fall. He could be there when they pick at 31.

Salyer projects more as a guard at the next level and Lance Zierlein is comparing him to Quentin Spain. Rhyan looks promising as a RT prospect but could be kicked inside.

I’d rather take someone who is going to stay on the outside. We already have one who has been talked about being moved inside even when they were drafted (Jonah).

Yep only 3 lineman at the combine have shorter arms...a few yrs ago that knocked Pugh from Cuse out of the 1st.

Jonah being moved depends on who they sign...if they got someone better like an Orlando Brown or Armstead they would move Jonah...big if.

RiverRat13

03-04-2022, 02:29 PM

Dehner and Morrison said on their podcast this week that their guess is they sign two clear starters on the offensive line in free agency and go corner at 31.

WVRed

03-04-2022, 04:10 PM

Dehner and Morrison said on their podcast this week that their guess is they sign two clear starters on the offensive line in free agency and go corner at 31.

And I’m fine with that IF they sign two starters.

I’d like to see them draft depth on the O-line in the later rounds.

Unless it’s a day one starter (Linderbaum) I’d rather use the pick elsewhere. FA would fix it long term while the draft would be more projects who would take longer to develop.

WVRed

03-05-2022, 10:34 AM

Looks like Jessie Bates has scrubbed his Twitter and removed the Bengals from following him.

Not a good look.

Sea Ray

03-05-2022, 10:40 AM

Looks like Jessie Bates has scrubbed his Twitter and removed the Bengals from following him.

Not a good look.

They'll franchise him if need be

WVRed

03-05-2022, 02:33 PM

They'll franchise him if need be

That’s what’s going to happen.

membengal

03-05-2022, 03:15 PM

Franchise tag 13 million. Adams signed with Seattle at top of S market last off-season for 18 million per. Doesn't matter was Bates wants, if they can't come to a deal, he's getting tagged.

KoryMac5

03-05-2022, 05:03 PM

Franchise tag 13 million. Adams signed with Seattle at top of S market last off-season for 18 million per. Doesn't matter was Bates wants, if they can't come to a deal, he's getting tagged.

Tyler Dragon just reported the Bengals will tag Bates and continue to negotiate a long term deal...

Smart move as it gives them a significant window now to try and come up with a contract that works out for all involved.

Oxilon

03-05-2022, 09:19 PM

Tyler Dragon just reported the Bengals will tag Bates and continue to negotiate a long term deal...

Smart move as it gives them a significant window now to try and come up with a contract that works out for all involved.

Earl Thomas would disagree with that.

KoryMac5

03-06-2022, 11:20 AM

Earl Thomas would disagree with that.

Thomas was hurt his final season with Seattle and was upset he didn't get an extension before the injury...

I get the point though rumors have it they basically have the framework for the contract worked out they are haggling over the AAV (Average Annual Value).

KoryMac5

03-07-2022, 10:25 AM

Rumors continue to percolate for 2 FA signings on the O line...Bengals will then shift their 1 to defense...I would think CB or DT

membengal

03-07-2022, 10:48 AM

WVRed

03-07-2022, 01:23 PM

Chiefs just franchised Orlando Brown Jr.

No surprise there.

WVRed

03-07-2022, 01:35 PM

It would make sense. 2021 - Chase and Carman - 2020 Burrow and Higgins --- 2019 - Jonah and Sample

That is 6 first or second round picks on offense in the last three drafts. Probably time to infuse on defense.

Not to mention any rookie draft pick isn’t going to improve the line. It’s better to build through free agency.

I know this is going to get shot down but if Jameson Williams somehow slipped to 31 would you take him?

Hear me out,

The Bengals don’t need a WR this year and Williams wouldn’t be expected to contribute. That said Tyler Boyd could be a cap casualty next offseason and then Williams could slide in next to Chase and Higgins.

Again I’m looking at best player available regardless of position and I’d imagine Williams would be gone by 31.

RiverRat13

03-07-2022, 02:21 PM

membengal

03-07-2022, 02:23 PM

They need to draft for defense high I think.

Ohayou

03-07-2022, 02:25 PM

Not to mention any rookie draft pick isn’t going to improve the line. It’s better to build through free agency.

I know this is going to get shot down but if Jameson Williams somehow slipped to 31 would you take him?

Hear me out,

The Bengals don’t need a WR this year and Williams wouldn’t be expected to contribute. That said Tyler Boyd could be a cap casualty next offseason and then Williams could slide in next to Chase and Higgins.

Again I’m looking at best player available regardless of position and I’d imagine Williams would be gone by 31.

Absolutely a rookie draft pick could improve the line. The key difference now is, FA's actually want to come to Cincy, for Joe Burrow. No lineman ever came out saying they wanted to block for Andy Dalton.

Williams will likely be gone before then. Philly, NO, NE, LV, Ten, GB, and KC all need receivers. I think Cleveland snags either Wilson or Olave. It's a deep WR class.

I'm betting they go CB. Waynes and Hargreaves will be cut. Apple, who knows, but I'm not relying on him as my #2 CB.

WVRed

03-07-2022, 02:34 PM

I don't think the roster is deep enough yet to take a luxury pick at 31. And the Bengals' recent history of taking injured guys hasn't worked out well for them.

The track record is there to take luxury picks and injured players gambling on them to be a steal. Cedric Ogbuehi was projected to be a top 5 or top 10 pick before injury in college. To your point taking injured players is where the Bengals tend to try to outsmart the draft.

I think Williams is gone though at 31 anyways and my guess is CB or DT. Either one would be a welcome addition.

WrongVerb

03-07-2022, 04:26 PM

Bengals tag Bates.

Ian Rapoport
@RapSheet

The #Bengals have tagged star S Jessie Bates, source said.
3:20pm · 7 Mar 2022

WVRed

03-07-2022, 04:48 PM

Absolutely a rookie draft pick could improve the line. The key difference now is, FA's actually want to come to Cincy, for Joe Burrow. No lineman ever came out saying they wanted to block for Andy Dalton.

Williams will likely be gone before then. Philly, NO, NE, LV, Ten, GB, and KC all need receivers. I think Cleveland snags either Wilson or Olave. It's a deep WR class.

I'm betting they go CB. Waynes and Hargreaves will be cut. Apple, who knows, but I'm not relying on him as my #2 CB.

If it’s Evan Neal or Ickey Ekwonu maybe. Penei Sewell was supposed to be a franchise LT and took until midseason last year to make an impact.

Rookies don’t make day one impacts on the offensive line.

I’m going into FA with guarded optimism. I say that because I believe nothing from agents who are only trying to drive up the market. I do think the Bengals will be players in FA and will likely sign two starters but I look for it to be someone who will still be an improvement but not who the fans are clamoring for.

Ohayou

03-07-2022, 05:26 PM

If it’s Evan Neal or Ickey Ekwonu maybe. Penei Sewell was supposed to be a franchise LT and took until midseason last year to make an impact.

Rookies don’t make day one impacts on the offensive line.

I’m going into FA with guarded optimism. I say that because I believe nothing from agents who are only trying to drive up the market. I do think the Bengals will be players in FA and will likely sign two starters but I look for it to be someone who will still be an improvement but not who the fans are clamoring for.

You said a rookie draft pick isn't going to improve the line. Sewell absolutely did improve the Lions line from Day 1, especially considering the fact that he was asked to start all training camp & pre-season at RT, then switch back to LT for the few months of the regular season, then back to RT again. He was one of the highest graded run-blockers in the NFL last season.

Rashawn Slater, Creed Humphrey, Alijah Vera-Tucker, Trey Smith, Landon Dickerson...all Day 1 impact starters.

WVRed

03-07-2022, 06:35 PM

Another name the Bengals talked to:

Purdue DE George Karlaftis

I’ve seen him mocked in the top 10 but recent reports have him sliding.

Todd Gack

03-07-2022, 07:27 PM

KoryMac5

03-08-2022, 09:11 AM

I had hopes for a LTC for Bates however now seeing the Bengals report they have been working with Bates on an extension for around a year, I would say it's below 50% chance. Its unusual for a team to put out that kind of messaging seems they are trying to get out in front of this. I am not expecting a long term deal...

SunDeck

03-08-2022, 10:25 AM

What does it mean when a club chooses to label a player with the franchise tag? Bates said during the playoffs he hoped to avoid that.

membengal

03-08-2022, 11:27 AM

What does it mean when a club chooses to label a player with the franchise tag? Bates said during the playoffs he hoped to avoid that.

It means they are committing to paying him the average of the top five at his particular position for 2022. Just under 13 million, guaranteed. Players don't like that because they want a longer term deal with higher guaranteed money as a hedge against a potential injury. The issue here is the gap between whatever Bates is demanding and what the Bengals are willing to go to above the tag in years and guarantees. Adams set the top of the S market last off-season at $18 million per. I would imagine the Bengals do not want to pay any safety, even Bates, that much given the other contracts they need to do. Dunno. We will see how it plays out. They could take Bates again next year too, if they wanted to. Bates can also hold out of off-season workouts and camps and training camp too.

WVRed

03-08-2022, 01:20 PM

What does it mean when a club chooses to label a player with the franchise tag? Bates said during the playoffs he hoped to avoid that.

It means Bates is back on a one year deal.

It’s a way to keep star players from leaving through free agency. The Bengals are paying him star money but if Bates underperforms or gets injured next season he’s likely to cost himself more money next season if he doesn’t sign a long term deal before then.

I’m sure there will be hard feelings and probably some kind of pushback by Bates through his agent (not attending OTAs or training camp) but I don’t see Bates doing a holdout or anything that could jeopardize getting paid.

RiverRat13

03-08-2022, 03:15 PM

First thoughts on the Russell Wilson trade from a Bengals perspective:

Cons - another good QB in the AFC and Denver's roster is loaded means the Broncos will be a formidable foe if the Bengals make it back to the playoffs. If the Bengals are in, they could have to beat three of Mahomes, Allen, Herbert, Lamar and Wilson to get out of the AFC.

Pros - the AFC West should beat each other up which makes it both harder for them to get multiple teams to the playoffs and harder for the Chiefs (or Broncos) to get the bye.

The Bills may be the biggest AFC winner from the Wilson deal. They are in the second weakest division and can rack up wins to get the bye while the AFC West and North teams give each other losses.

Kingspoint

03-08-2022, 03:56 PM

Redsfaithful

03-08-2022, 04:09 PM

Really weird as a fan for the conference to be this stacked and still not be worried.

Kingspoint

03-08-2022, 04:23 PM

Really weird as a fan for the conference to be this stacked and still not be worried.

Other teams can get as good as they want.

If we can protect Burrow, we are unstoppable.

To WVR: RT's can be impact players their Rookie Year. Wirfs was also impactful his rookie season. Sewell actually started at RG this season, then did the other multiple moves as mentioned, while he also had an injury early that involved a few games. We also don't need the draft pick to be an "impact" player his rookie season. He just needs to be average in order to be a major improvement over what we had the last two seasons, making him an "impact" player for this Offensive Line. We have our Starting RT, a good enough RT, coming back from injury. His replacement for 2023 is what we are drafting with our 1st Rd pick at RT, so that player has a full season with pre-season and playoff experience, about 24-25 games, and two training camps, and a Rookie mini-camp to get to the point of "average" as a RT in his 2nd season to be a huge improvement over what we had from Week 14 on this season. FA will take care of the C/RG experience (in addition to the 1st Rd RT being able to compete against the added RG FA for playing time), plus last year's G investment in the draft will be on their 2nd season with this Summer's training camp to get better. Bengals are drafting in a perfect spot for a RT. Bottom of the 1st/top of the 2nd is the best spot to pick from to get the best RT's in any draft. Five LT's will go before the first RT goes.

We do not need to get a RT in FA. That money is already spent on a RT for next season.

redsfandan

03-08-2022, 05:52 PM

Sea Ray

03-08-2022, 06:24 PM

Given how stacked the AFC is now with QBs, the key to setting yourself apart is to build a defense. That's how our Bengals got to the SB. What set us apart was our defense and second half adjustments from Lou A.

RedTeamGo!

03-08-2022, 06:30 PM

They need to draft for defense high I think.

Hard to say, IMHO. My first instinct is to say OL. However, when you are drafting at 31 you just have to take BPA (with the obvious exception of QB and perhaps WR). If a top OL drops to you at 31, gotta take him. However, if a top defensive player slips to you at 31 and all the best OLs have already been popped, I agree the best move would be a defensive player. I think a great pick for the Bengals would be one of the LBs from Georgia - Walker or Dean. I think Dean is getting undervalued because of his height (he’s 5-11 I think), but he’s ballhawk, quick, and a great tackler. I’d think about Cine, the safety out of Georgia as well. He’s a heat seaking missile out of the secondary.

UKFlounder

03-08-2022, 06:36 PM

It all depends on how free agency goes snd how they fix the OL there.

I do wonder how different things would be if this was like the NBA with the draft girst, then free agency .

Hard to say, IMHO. My first instinct is to say OL. However, when you are drafting at 31 you just have to take BPA (with the obvious exception of QB and perhaps WR). If a top OL drops to you at 31, gotta take him. However, if a top defensive player slips to you at 31 and all the best OLs have already been popped, I agree the best move would be a defensive player. I think a great pick for the Bengals would be one of the LBs from Georgia - Walker or Dean. I think Dean is getting undervalued because of his height (he’s 5-11 I think), but he’s ballhawk, quick, and a great tackler. I’d think about Cine, the safety out of Georgia as well. He’s a heat seaking missile out of the secondary.

RedTeamGo!

03-08-2022, 06:39 PM

It all depends on how free agency goes snd how they fix the OL there.

I do wonder how different things would be if this was like the NBA with the draft girst, then free agency .

For sure, 100% agree about how FA goes. Will be interesting. I am just saying, if all the OLs the bengals rate as either 1st or 2nd round picks are popped before 1-31, the worst thing they could do is just pick the next OL on their board, even if he has a 3rd round grade or worse.

membengal

03-08-2022, 06:44 PM

Ohayou

03-08-2022, 07:33 PM

Hard to say, IMHO. My first instinct is to say OL. However, when you are drafting at 31 you just have to take BPA (with the obvious exception of QB and perhaps WR). If a top OL drops to you at 31, gotta take him. However, if a top defensive player slips to you at 31 and all the best OLs have already been popped, I agree the best move would be a defensive player. I think a great pick for the Bengals would be one of the LBs from Georgia - Walker or Dean. I think Dean is getting undervalued because of his height (he’s 5-11 I think), but he’s ballhawk, quick, and a great tackler. I’d think about Cine, the safety out of Georgia as well. He’s a heat seaking missile out of the secondary.

One of my favorite LB prospects this year is Leo Chenal out of Wisconsin. Definitely one of the biggest athletic freaks in the draft. I'd hate to him go to the Steelers and put up 10+ sacks a year across Watt...because that's who he reminds me of.

I like Cine a lot, too - doesn't shy from contact, and one of the hardest hitters out there.

Redsfaithful

03-08-2022, 08:21 PM

My reasoning for defense at 31 (and second round too) is the last three drafts have been offense in first and second round. Time to infuse on the defense - especially in a deeeeep defense draft.

(This assumes they upgrade the o-line with at least two FA legit signings)

I've come around to this point of view.

They have needs on the d-line too, it's not just the secondary. The pass rush is extremely rough whenever Hendrickson isn't on the field and back problems always pop up again later at some point.

WVRed

03-08-2022, 08:36 PM

I've come around to this point of view.

They have needs on the d-line too, it's not just the secondary. The pass rush is extremely rough whenever Hendrickson isn't on the field and back problems always pop up again later at some point.

I’d say Ogunjobi isn’t going to be back either. Ossai coming back should help pass rush if Hendrickson gets hurt.

George Karlaftis or Devontae Wyatt would be nice on the D-line. If neither are there then go best CB available.

Redsfaithful

03-08-2022, 08:40 PM

Ossai will be nice to have, but have to think he's a rotation guy until he shows otherwise coming off an injury.

What's the best bang for the buck in free agency with the Bengals? Assuming the big needs are offensive line, secondary, defensive line - what's the most expensive area to upgrade?

Hillsdale87

03-08-2022, 09:10 PM

https://twitter.com/schultz_report/status/1501344065291530240?s=10

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

KoryMac5

03-08-2022, 09:16 PM

I’d say Ogunjobi isn’t going to be back either. Ossai coming back should help pass rush if Hendrickson gets hurt.

George Karlaftis or Devontae Wyatt would be nice on the D-line. If neither are there then go best CB available.

Ogunjubi has a good chance to be back though…up and down season plus coming off an injury, he will have a market but nothing crazy. Agreed that they still need depth on both lines though a DT or DE in the first round depending on how the draft plays out.

Rumor has it they are also linked to JC Jackson the corner from NE see the tweet posted above.

bm1475

03-09-2022, 04:01 PM

For sure, 100% agree about how FA goes. Will be interesting. I am just saying, if all the OLs the bengals rate as either 1st or 2nd round picks are popped before 1-31, the worst thing they could do is just pick the next OL on their board, even if he has a 3rd round grade or worse.

Drafting strictly for need is almost always a bad move... this isn't an original take, but they desperately need to use that cap room to get the thing that won't be available at 31, and that's a primo lineman.

Sea Ray

03-09-2022, 04:07 PM

WVRed

03-09-2022, 04:09 PM

Drafting strictly for need is almost always a bad move... this isn't an original take, but they desperately need to use that cap room to get the thing that won't be available at 31, and that's a primo lineman.

And if they do take a lineman it will be a Bernhard Raimann who needs a year or two to develop.

At this point I think Zion Johnson or Tyler Linderbaum are the only O-linemen I’m fine with them taking in the first.

Redsfaithful

03-09-2022, 08:15 PM

The Ryan Jensen rumors are getting enough traction that I think there's something there. Feels like an open secret sort of situation - would love to see it.

redsfandan

03-09-2022, 08:19 PM

The Ryan Jensen rumors are getting enough traction that I think there's something there. Feels like an open secret sort of situation - would love to see it.

Hope you're right.

WVRed

03-09-2022, 08:28 PM

The Ryan Jensen rumors are getting enough traction that I think there's something there. Feels like an open secret sort of situation - would love to see it.

A Steelers insider came out today and said he’s 95% certain Jensen will sign with Cincinnati.

I’m kinda liking this mock and so is PFF:

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220310/daf617280f2f341f77b2239409f81b90.jpg

KoryMac5

03-10-2022, 02:21 PM

Larry O expected to have a market around 10 million per season. I think the Bengals offer on both he and Hill and go with whoever signs first.

Hillsdale87

03-10-2022, 05:48 PM

Larry O expected to have a market around 10 million per season. I think the Bengals offer on both he and Hill and go with whoever signs first.

I like Larry O, but I hope they don't give him $10MM.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

WrongVerb

03-10-2022, 06:42 PM

3 Teams That Should Trade For La'el Collins (https://thedraftnetwork.com/articles/lael-collins-trade-cowboys-chargers-raiders-jets)

According to multiple reports, the Dallas Cowboys are engaged in active trade discussions surrounding starting right tackle La'El Collins. It's yet another rumor in the midst of what appears to be a potentially troublesome offseason for the cash-strapped Dallas Cowboys as they continue to clear cap space in accordance with the impending arrival of the new league year.

Collins joins superstar wide receiver Amari Cooper and sack-artist DeMarcus Lawrence as upscale Cowboys that could potentially be headed toward an untimely exit. Dallas prioritized the retention of tight end Dalton Schultz, who was slapped with the franchise tag earlier this week. The decision to keep and pay Schultz will have ramifications throughout the rest of the roster, and Collins' healthy salary could be sacrificed.

A plethora of offensive line-needy teams should possess a legitimate interest in acquiring Collins should he truly be available on the trade market. A former undrafted free agent out of LSU (due to at-the-time off-field concerns, not talent questions), Collins has developed into a high-level starting right tackle that also has experience playing both guard positions. He would immediately slot into the starting lineup of nearly every team in the NFL.

Roy Tucker

03-10-2022, 06:55 PM

ESPN's Stephen A. Smith: Bills, Titans, Chiefs, Broncos among AFC's Super Bowl contenders

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/2022/03/09/stephen-a-smith-espn-bills-titans-chiefs-broncos-among-afc-super-bowl-contenders-bengals-excluded/9442479002/

I'm good with this. Let's be underdogs for another year

Experts are blinded by the woeful Bengals OL. But they have the money to spend on 2-3 good to very good offensive linemen.

And they have Joe Burrow. I cannot overemphasize how good he is going to be. He’s Tom Brady-Joe Montana level.

redsfandan

03-10-2022, 07:30 PM

Experts are blinded by the woeful Bengals OL. But they have the money to spend on 2-3 good to very good offensive linemen.
.
The Bengals haven't signed 2-3 good to very good offensive linemen yet.

membengal

03-10-2022, 08:06 PM

Since, you know, FA hasn’t started and what not.

RedTeamGo!

03-10-2022, 08:24 PM

He’s Tom Brady-Joe Montana level.

Burrow is VERY good.

Let’s pump the breaks a bit, though.

WVRed

03-10-2022, 08:37 PM

Burrow is VERY good.

Let’s pump the breaks a bit, though.

He’s good enough that he can win in spite of the talent that is surrounding him similar to Peyton Manning in Indy. Burrow doesn’t have an offensive line. Peyton didn’t have a defense until Dungy showed up.

But yeah, until Burrow gets a ring let’s ice the Brady comparisons.

WVRed

03-10-2022, 08:39 PM

Experts are blinded by the woeful Bengals OL. But they have the money to spend on 2-3 good to very good offensive linemen.

And they have Joe Burrow. I cannot overemphasize how good he is going to be. He’s Tom Brady-Joe Montana level.

It’s the fact that Burrow plays in Cincinnati.

Put him in New York or New England on a contender and the media would be singing his praises.

Kingspoint

03-11-2022, 12:40 AM

He’s good enough that he can win in spite of the talent that is surrounding him similar to Peyton Manning in Indy. Burrow doesn’t have an offensive line. Peyton didn’t have a defense until Dungy showed up.

But yeah, until Burrow gets a ring let’s ice the Brady comparisons.

Peyton Manning always played with a HOF/perennial Pro Bowler LT and C and WR, and a perennial pro bowl TE, WR2 and RB. Burrow is better than Manning, who always sucked whenever he was flushed from the pocket, something that rarely happened with him having the NFL's best Offensive Line Coach the entire time he was there. Peyton had it easy in Indy as far as when it came to elite line protection and elite talent surrounding him. Burrow's had nothing but Rookie WR's who drop a lot of passes (except for Boyd, but he was the WR3), and horrible line play. Peyton never had to face that in his entire career.

Kingspoint

03-11-2022, 12:43 AM

And if they do take a lineman it will be a Bernhard Raimann who needs a year or two to develop.

Perfect! We don't need him for a year or two. We will get our Starting C from Free Agency, and will also probably add a Starting RG through FA, as there are several options for both.

Everything is set up perfectly for the Bengals to take the BPA with #31, and that may just be Raimann. If it's not, they can still get a Starting RT who will be ready in a year or two with a 2nd Rd pick, having already taken care of their biggest O-Line needs (C & RG) in FA, both likely Top-10 in their respective positions.

WVRed

03-11-2022, 07:47 AM

Perfect! We don't need him for a year or two. We will get our Starting C from Free Agency, and will also probably add a Starting RG through FA, as there are several options for both.

Everything is set up perfectly for the Bengals to take the BPA with #31, and that may just be Raimann. If it's not, they can still get a Starting RT who will be ready in a year or two with a 2nd Rd pick, having already taken care of their biggest O-Line needs (C & RG) in FA, both likely Top-10 in their respective positions.

I’d rather they get someone who can contribute day one in the draft than a draft and stash. Only two offensive linemen i see are capable of that and both could be gone by 31 (Zion Johnson and Tyler Linderbaum).

More than likely anyone who can come in and make an impact will be on defense.

Hillsdale87

03-11-2022, 09:19 AM

Peyton Manning always played with a HOF/perennial Pro Bowler LT and C and WR, and a perennial pro bowl TE, WR2 and RB. Burrow is better than Manning, who always sucked whenever he was flushed from the pocket, something that rarely happened with him having the NFL's best Offensive Line Coach the entire time he was there. Peyton had it easy in Indy as far as when it came to elite line protection and elite talent surrounding him. Burrow's had nothing but Rookie WR's who drop a lot of passes (except for Boyd, but he was the WR3), and horrible line play. Peyton never had to face that in his entire career.

I love Burrow, and I'm generally lower on Peyton than most, but Burrow is not better than Manning, at least not yet. Yes Peyton was surrounded by weapons, but he also made those guys look better than they were. Dallas Clark went out, Jacob Tamme came in and they didn't miss a beat. Edgerrin James goes out, Dominic Rhodes comes in, same thing. Everybody that came into that offense looked like an all-pro, and it's because Peyton was an elite QB plus the OC, and one of the best OCs in the NFL.

I think Peyton is the best comp for Burrow though. Arm doesn't wow you, but he overcomes it by being the smartest guy on the field and has pinpoint accuracy. And I think Burrow has a good chance to get to that level, but it's not a knock to say that Burrow isn't better than a top 10 all time QB after two seasons. Peyton also led an incredible turnaround in his second season. Just to have Peyton listed as a realistic comp for Burrow should have everybody excited. If he has anything close to Manning's career, we're all going to be thrilled

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RiverRat13

03-11-2022, 09:28 AM

The talk on Twitter is that Collins would be available pretty cheap. Maybe as low as a Day 3 pick. He'd only have a $10mm cap hit. The Bengals should be jumping all over that.

WVRed

03-11-2022, 10:16 AM

I love Burrow, and I'm generally lower on Peyton than most, but Burrow is not better than Manning, at least not yet. Yes Peyton was surrounded by weapons, but he also made those guys look better than they were. Dallas Clark went out, Jacob Tamme came in and they didn't miss a beat. Edgerrin James goes out, Dominic Rhodes comes in, same thing. Everybody that came into that offense looked like an all-pro, and it's because Peyton was an elite QB plus the OC, and one of the best OCs in the NFL.

I think Peyton is the best comp for Burrow though. Arm doesn't wow you, but he overcomes it by being the smartest guy on the field and has pinpoint accuracy. And I think Burrow has a good chance to get to that level, but it's not a knock to say that Burrow isn't better than a top 10 all time QB after two seasons. Peyton also led an incredible turnaround in his second season. Just to have Peyton listed as a realistic comp for Burrow should have everybody excited. If he has anything close to Manning's career, we're all going to be thrilled

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Both have insane field intelligence but the difference is Manning had a rocket arm while Burrow has some mobility and ability to extend the pocket.

Other than that, yeah they are pretty similar.

KoryMac5

03-11-2022, 03:36 PM

The talk on Twitter is that Collins would be available pretty cheap. Maybe as low as a Day 3 pick. He'd only have a $10mm cap hit. The Bengals should be jumping all over that.

Unless the price is falling most of the tweets I saw this AM thought a 3rd round pick...which I would still be all over considering his contract

Kingspoint

03-12-2022, 04:28 AM

Isn't it nice for a change to go into an off-season with confidence that Management and Ownership is not only "not incompetent and cheap (or competent at being cheap)", but effective and driven to win?

Hillsdale87

03-12-2022, 09:06 AM

Both have insane field intelligence but the difference is Manning had a rocket arm while Burrow has some mobility and ability to extend the pocket.

Other than that, yeah they are pretty similar.

I was thinking of later career Manning. His arm strength was diminished with the Broncos, but he still had a number of great seasons just by always calling the right play and putting the ball in the perfect spot.

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membengal

03-12-2022, 09:55 AM

Peyton Manning never had a rocket arm. Even in his prime.

WVRed

03-13-2022, 07:34 PM

With Brady coming back any takers that Ryan Jensen stays in Tampa now?

redsfandan

03-13-2022, 07:40 PM

With Brady coming back any takers that Ryan Jensen stays in Tampa now?

I know this increases the chances that he'll resign but there's still a chance he won't. Jensen will want more than a 1 year deal. Who knows how much longer Brady will play. Otoh, Burrow will be here for years.

redsfandan

03-14-2022, 01:40 AM

I know this increases the chances that he'll resign but there's still a chance he won't. Jensen will want more than a 1 year deal. Who knows how much longer Brady will play. Otoh, Burrow will be here for years.

Well this post aged well. :rolleyes:

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 03:20 AM

Well this post aged well. :rolleyes:

Good call. What you got 100% right, was that Jensen was resignable and wanted multiple years.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 03:32 AM

https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-2022-free-agent-rankings-free-agency

ProfootballFocus Free Agency rankings, overall and by position, with detailed reasons why they are ranked where they are.

redsfandan

03-14-2022, 03:36 AM

Good call. What you got 100% right, was that Jensen was resignable and wanted multiple years.

If only I could have been right about him wanting to play with a top QB every year.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 03:44 AM

If only I could have been right about him wanting to play with a top QB every year.

This deal, though, probably eliminates Tampa from resigning their Right Guard, as the majority of Tampa's best players are all unsigned. They just won't have any money left for...

from PFF...

G ALEX CAPPA, TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

Cappa was drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of Division II Humboldt State. And he’s gotten better each season as he made a huge adjustment to the speed of the NFL game, culminating in career highs as a pass-blocker (71.4) and run-blocker (71.2). The Buccaneers also have center Ryan Jensen hitting free agency and may not be able to retain both players, which could lead to a solid free agency for Cappa.

Strengths:
– Powerful finisher on downhill runs
– Creates movement on doubles and zone blocks
– Eliminates power rushes

Weaknesses:
– Struggles with lateral movement
– Can whiff and miscommunicate on stunts and twists
– Loses to pass-rushers with speed

Scheme Fit/Role:
STARTING GUARD: Cappa isn't a world-beater on the interior, but he adds legitimate value to teams that want to run the ball downhill. The Chargers, Dolphins and Jaguars should all be looking to add a run-blocking guard like Cappa.

Recent Injury History:
Cappa did not suffer any injury of significance in the 2021-22 season. The guard suffered an ankle injury in 2020 that landed him on the IR.

Contract Projection: Four years, $37 million ($9.25M per year), $20 million total guaranteed

Bottom Line:
As the NFL becomes more spread out, interior offensive linemen will need to be powerful enough to win one-on-one blocks between the guards. Cappa fits that mold and should add value to teams struggling with its downhill runs.

I disagree on the projected amount. I think he will sign for 3 years @ $6.25M/yr.

I think that among FA Guards, he fits our scheme better than most teams' schemes, and thus, won't be getting a lot of offers. There are a lot of quality FA RG's available, all at about the $6M-$7M range.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 03:53 AM

I thought we had Reiff coming back for one more year. That changes everything. This is why I thought we could ease our 1st Rd pick in, if it was a RT. But, our RT has to be effective immediately, which means resigning Reiff for one year, or adding someone as good or better for 1 or more years in FA. Reiff, for one more season, will at least be average, which is night and day better than the dead last worst his replacements were after Wk 14.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 03:56 AM

#1 option:

C BRADLEY BOZEMAN, BALTIMORE RAVENS

Bozeman earned career highs as a pass- and run-blocker in 2021 as a center with 70.0-plus grades in both facets. This was a year after starting the entire season at left guard and earning respectable 60.0-plus grades across the board as well.

Strengths:
– Rarely gets beat in the run game
– Full seasons starting at both guard and center

Weaknesses:
– Pass protection when lined up at guard
– Athleticism

Scheme Fit/Role:
INTERIOR OL STARTER IN GAP-HEAVY SCHEME: Bozeman is a below-average athlete who isn't at his best in a zone scheme that asks him to get out in space. He's coming off a career-best 73.8 PFF pass-blocking grade in 2021, his lone season at center for the Ravens.

Recent Injury History:
Bozeman has played over 1,100 offensive snaps in each of the past three seasons for Baltimore. He missed one game last season with an illness.

Contract Projection: Four years, $38 million ($9.5M per year, $21.5 million total guaranteed)

Bottom Line:
Bozeman is far from the most physically gifted offensive lineman in the NFL, but he has three years of respectable starting play across multiple positions on his resume and is coming off a career year in 2021.

#2 option:

Adding someone like Kappa for 3 years.

#3 option:

Adding someone like Rieff for 1 year, with Reiff's replacement being the 31st pick in the 2022 draft.

Our O-Line will be 90% better if these moves are made.

KoryMac5

03-14-2022, 07:49 AM

Jensen back to Tampa 3 yrs 39 million he was heavily rumored to go a few different places but once Brady came back he was going to stay in the Bay.

WVRed

03-14-2022, 12:07 PM

OG- Alex Cappa from Tampa Bay to the Bengals 4 yr 40 million per Adam Schefter.

UKFlounder

03-14-2022, 12:21 PM

Glad to see them make an early move

OG- Alex Cappa from Tampa Bay to the Bengals 4 yr 40 million per Adam Schefter.

KoryMac5

03-14-2022, 12:22 PM

OG- Alex Cappa from Tampa Bay to the Bengals 4 yr 40 million per Adam Schefter.

Nice move by the Bengals 1 minute in to FA Cappa is a guy who has gotten better every year for TB.

RiverRat13

03-14-2022, 12:27 PM

Clear upgrade #1 in the books.

WVRed

03-14-2022, 01:15 PM

Larry Ogunjobi to the Bears.

WVRed

03-14-2022, 01:44 PM

Bengals sign Ted Karras to 3 yr 18 million deal. Can play center or guard.

RiverRat13

03-14-2022, 01:58 PM

I like the versatility of Karras. Allows them to draft either a C or G at 31 if someone worthy drops.

WVRed

03-14-2022, 02:13 PM

Kappa: 74.2 PFF
Karras: 72.8 PFF

I’d say it frees them up to go defense or OT.

KoryMac5

03-14-2022, 02:14 PM

Larry Ogunjobi to the Bears.

For a big pile o cash too 3 yrs 40 mil 26 guaranteed...shows how much I knew the market is definitely reset.

RiverRat13

03-14-2022, 02:21 PM

I'm wondering if they bring Spain back and make Carman beat him out at LG.

KoryMac5

03-14-2022, 02:30 PM

I'm wondering if they bring Spain back and make Carman beat him out at LG.

Dehner just speculated the same on Twitter….Spain will be cheap and he does play well in spots.

RiverRat13

03-14-2022, 02:42 PM

BJ Hill is back.

WVRed

03-14-2022, 02:42 PM

Bengals just resigned BJ Hill 3 yr 30 million 15 million in year 1.

KoryMac5

03-14-2022, 03:02 PM

Really smart moves by Tobin on Day 1…give the Bengals an A plus.

Todd Gack

03-14-2022, 03:10 PM

Outside of signing a CB, I truly think we go BPA at 31 no matter the position (outside of QB, of course.)

membengal

03-14-2022, 04:40 PM

The bengals absolutely have killed day 1 of free agency. Never thought I would see the day they would be the first team out of the gates. Upgrading two of the 3 IOL spots for $16 million total is brilliant work.

WVRed

03-14-2022, 04:51 PM

I like the versatility of Karras. Allows them to draft either a C or G at 31 if someone worthy drops.

I’d say this is the line moving forward:

LT-Jonah
LG-Carman
C-Karras
RG-Kappa
RT-? (Hopefully Collins)

Draft will likely be a CB or someone who drops.

WVRed

03-14-2022, 04:56 PM

Fun fact:

Ted Karras’ uncle is Mongo from Blazing Saddles.

WVRed

03-14-2022, 05:01 PM

JC Jackson to the Chargers.

That defense is going to be tough with Bosa, Mack, Derwin James and JC Jackson.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 05:23 PM

JC Jackson to the Chargers.

That defense is going to be tough with Bosa, Mack, Derwin James and JC Jackson.

They had to. Herbert was better than Maholmes last season, and they still couldn't win a big game because of the horrible Defense (cap casualties the last two years).

And Herbert will still be running for his life.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 05:43 PM

How PFF graded Hill going into FA...

DI B.J. HILL, CINCINNATI BENGALS

Right before the 2021 season, the New York Giants inexplicably traded Hill and a seventh-round pick for former Cincinnati Bengals center Billy Price – and Hill excelled with more opportunities on a less-crowded defensive line.

The former third-round draft pick is a solid all-around 3-technique with the ability to generate relatively consistent pressure from the interior. With increased playing time, he earned his third straight 70.0-plus season grade, producing a career-best 12 combined sacks and hits.

Strengths:
– Run defense
– Strength
– Rarely misses tackles

Weaknesses:
– Hasn't been a regular starter since his rookie season
– Only an average pass-rusher

Scheme Fit/Role:
RUN-STUFFING INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMAN: Hill began his career stuck in a crowded interior defensive line rotation in New York with the likes of Dalvin Tomlinson, Dexter Lawrence and Leonard Williams, prompting the trade to Cincinnati. He has been a positive force against the run while producing pressure at a middling rate with both teams.

Recent Injury History:
Hill has appeared in every game since he was drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft, excluding a Week 18 absence last season while on the COVID-19 list. He's been one of the more durable defensive linemen in the NFL, albeit in a rotational role.

Contract Projection: Three years, $26.25 million ($8.75 million per year, $14.5 million total guaranteed

Bottom Line:
The fact that Hill hasn't started many games in his first four seasons doesn't mean he can't be a starting defensive tackle for a team with a need at the position. He's a plus run defender who isn't a non-factor in the passing game.

- - - Updated - - -

Joe Burrow just lit a cigar.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 05:47 PM

I feel like they signed the best available RG choice that fits their scheme, at market price (perhaps a bit higher in my opinion, but exactly what PFF said he would cost, to the penny), with extreme stability (four years and healthy) and getting this asset on the lowside of value (he's likely to improve every year of the contract). You can't do better than that.

B.J. Hill was an extremely important FA signing, with our ability to sign him, a likely coveted FA target, due to his being a current member of the team. They got him for much less than the Bears paid for Ogunjobi, and Hill is much, much better than Ogunjobi.

Karras is probably the Starting LG, though versatility is a must in today's NFL, so C isn't out of the possibility. Are the Bengals still looking for C? The fit has to be right.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 05:49 PM

PFF's grade going into FA on Karras...

C/G TED KARRAS, NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

Karras’ decision to rejoin a New England team that drafted him paid off — even after fellow center David Andrews agreed to an extension and won the starting center job. Karras filled in for over 800 snaps at mostly left guard and earned a 76.9 pass-blocking grade. Karras earned a solid multi-year payday as a versatile interior offensive lineman.

Strengths:
– Avoids negative plays in the run game
– Coming off a career season in pass protection
– Experience starting at center and guard

Weaknesses:
– Doesn't play with great leverage
– Low percentage of positively graded run blocks

Scheme Fit/Role:
STARTING GUARD/HIGH-END BACKUP WITH POSITIONAL VERSATILITY: Karras' 2021 season with the Patriots marked the first time he cleared a PFF grade of 70.0 in a starting role, and it was by far the best season of his career in pass protection of his three years as a starter. At worst, he's a high-end depth piece for an interior offensive line with starting experience at multiple positions.

Recent Injury History: Karras hasn't had any major injury concerns in his NFL career. He missed a game in 2019 with a knee injury but has been available outside of that over the past three seasons.

Contract Projection: Three years, $13 million ($4.33M per year), $6.25 million total guaranteed

Bottom Line: Karras' track record over the last three years of starting at multiple positions competently provides, at worst, peace of mind for an offensive line that is already in a good place when it comes to depth.

Compare his analysis with theirs of Spain...

G QUINTON SPAIN, CINCINNATI BENGALS

Spain has earned very strong pass- and run-blocking grades at different times throughout his solid seven-year career, but he has yet to put everything together for a full season. He allowed 23 pressures and five sacks as a member of an interior offensive line that was simply dominated by opposing pass-rushers at times, but he certainly proved that he deserves more than the veteran minimum he played on for 2021.

Strengths:
– Size
– Powerful and physical play style

Weaknesses:
– Run blocking in a gap scheme
– Inconsistent hands
– Coming off two worst seasons in pass protection

Scheme Fit/Role:

LEFT GUARD IN ZONE-HEAVY RUN SCHEME: Big maulers at the guard position generally profile best in gap schemes, but Spain has graded in the 57th percentile at the position on zone runs compared to just the 10th percentile in gap runs over the past three seasons. He's a starting option but likely one who teams will be looking to upgrade on.

Recent Injury History:
Spain had started 24 consecutive games for the Bengals starting in Week 10 of the 2020 campaign before an ankle injury and an appearance on the COVID-19 list kept him out of a meaningless Week 18 game this season. He also missed time with a foot injury prior to the trade to Cincinnati in 2020.

Contract Projection: Three years, $14.25 million ($4.75M per year), $6.75 million total guaranteed

Bottom Line:
Spain has been one of the Bengals' better offensive linemen this season, but that isn't saying all that much. He's a mid-to-low-end starting option with plenty of experience between his time with Tennessee, Buffalo and Cincinnati.

Looking at these two, it stands out to me that they emphasized pass-protection at the LG spot over run-blocking going forward, when forced to make the choice of what they could afford, not being able to afford both. You can't pay premium at every position. Most teams run 80% of their runs to the right, so LG needs to be more of a pass-protection fit anyway.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 06:02 PM

From NBC Sports w/ NBC Sports comments:

Bengals extended a right of first refusal tender to restricted free agent OL Fred Johnson.

He would make $2.433 million on the tender in 2022. He's undrafted, so there would be no compensation if another team made an offer for Johnson. A depth piece for the Bengals, Johnson was the team's top-graded run blocking tackle in 2021, per Pro Football Focus. He should have a rotational role in 2022 with the Bengals determined to bolster their offensive line.

SOURCE: Ben Baby on Twitter

membengal

03-14-2022, 06:02 PM

The Bengals being FA savants was not something I ever entertained as a remote possibility three years ago.

And, yet, here we are. Playing it perfectly, addressing needs with smart contracts for players still on the rise. Just like last year and the year before.

Just...wow. New days.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 06:06 PM

This could be their tackle target after his release, but the Bengals seem to be avoiding players with injury histories.

From NBC Sports w/ NBC Sports comments:

The Dallas Morning News' Calvin Watkins reports "it's doubtful" the Cowboys will be able to trade RT La'el Collins, and a release is "probable."

Collins is signed through 2024 at $10 million salaries each of the next three years, but the Cowboys seem intent on getting rid of him. Collins turns 29 this summer and will garner serious interest on the open market if he is indeed let go. Nobody wants to give up picks for him is the only thing stopping a trade, because teams know the Cowboys will cut him.

SOURCE: Calvin Watkins on Twitter

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 06:37 PM

Bengals' press conference should be enlightening.

WVRed

03-14-2022, 07:02 PM

CJ Uzomah to the Jets.

3 yr 24 million.

Do we draft or sign a TE now?

KoryMac5

03-14-2022, 07:15 PM

CJ Uzomah to the Jets.

3 yr 24 million.

Do we draft or sign a TE now?

Round 2 possibly…Burrow loves Moss too.

Sad to see CJ go though loved his energy on the team.

membengal

03-14-2022, 07:36 PM

Gerald Everett a FA TE who makes a ton of sense. History with ZT too.

I believe OJ Howard also a FA TE. Still upside there and younger and cheaper.

CTA513

03-14-2022, 07:45 PM

CJ Uzomah to the Jets.

3 yr 24 million.

Do we draft or sign a TE now?

Time for Sample to step up or move on.

WVRed

03-14-2022, 08:01 PM

Round 2 possibly…Burrow loves Moss too.

Sad to see CJ go though loved his energy on the team.

Jalen Wydermyer may be available round 2. Or Jeremy Ruckert in round 3 or 4.

WrongVerb

03-14-2022, 08:50 PM

It's a deep draft for tight ends.

redsfan30

03-14-2022, 09:18 PM

A bit shocked to see CJ leave town
I think this a low key big blow.

Bob Sheed

03-14-2022, 09:58 PM

Amazing day. This team really has turned the corner.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 10:16 PM

A bit shocked to see CJ leave town
I think this a low key big blow.
They need to save somewhere, and with the average TE now costing $10M per season, and Burrow now having more time to throw the ball, the Bengals could go with a lot of 0-TE sets and 2-RB backfields, 4WR sets.

Bob Sheed

03-14-2022, 10:26 PM

Or 5 WR empty backfield, which Burrow has always wanted.

Redsfaithful

03-14-2022, 10:48 PM

A bit shocked to see CJ leave town
I think this a low key big blow.

I saw the point being made on Twitter that he seems like a guy who may have a media career when he's done. NYC is a good landing spot if that's where his head's at.

He'll definitely be missed, I'm surprised they let him go. Locker room chemistry takes a hit, but should be fine. I think ultimately Burrow sets that tone going forward.

Yachtzee

03-14-2022, 10:53 PM

I saw the point being made on Twitter that he seems like a guy who may have a media career when he's done. NYC is a good landing spot if that's where his head's at.

He'll definitely be missed, I'm surprised they let him go. Locker room chemistry takes a hit, but should be fine. I think ultimately Burrow sets that tone going forward.

Kind of surprised he would leave to go to the Jets. I realize NFL careers can be short, but if I were in his shoes, I might consider sticking with the Bengals for less money and a having a shot at another Super Bowl than signing with the Jets.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 10:56 PM

Use that Ozumah money for a RT, CB, or C.

Boss-Hog

03-14-2022, 11:03 PM

Use that Ozumah money for a RT, CB, or C.I think it remains to be seen based on the remainder of free agency and if any notable OL fell to them in the draft, but if they were to line up today, I suspect Karras would be the center. He could always move to LG if a center fell in their lap, but I'm not sure who that'd be at this point in free agency.

Kingspoint

03-14-2022, 11:20 PM

I think it remains to be seen based on the remainder of free agency and if any notable OL fell to them in the draft, but if they were to line up today, I suspect Karras would be the center. He could always move to LG if a center fell in their lap, but I'm not sure who that'd be at this point in free agency.

Waiting for the press conference to see if they suggest that Karras will likely play C, or if they even infer it.

Karras gives them more options and choices. One RT that is interesting and would check several boxes (right price, short-term commitment, upside, not a liability in pass or run) is Morgan Moses.

From Jetswire:

Jets RT Morgan Moses received some good news prior to hitting the open market. Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the offensive lineman got a second opinion on his knee after injuring it in Gang Green’s season finale on Sunday. Doctors determined that Moses’ MCL is okay, and he passed his exit physical with the Jets. That means Moses, 30, will head to free agency without any major injury concerns. He enjoyed a strong season after signing with the Jets last summer, recording a 70.9 Pro Football Focus grade while allowing just three sacks over 1,022 offensive snaps. Moses appeared in all 17 games for New York and has not missed a game since his sophomore season in 2015.

Boss-Hog

03-14-2022, 11:23 PM

I'd be fine with Moses or Daryl Williams on a reasonable short term deal if they can't make it work with Collins if and when he's released, as expected.

KoryMac5

03-15-2022, 10:07 AM

Gronk has yet to sign more likely because TB is up against the cap...he definitely has to be in play for Cincy.

Kingspoint

03-15-2022, 11:56 AM

The Browns' best O-Lineman and best pass-blocker per PFF was released today.

C J.C. Tretter also happens to be president of the player's union. Not sure Mike Brown wants that guy on the team.

WVRed

03-15-2022, 11:56 AM

JC Tretter released by the Browns.

Sign him as a center and use Karras and Kappa at the guard spots?

KoryMac5

03-15-2022, 01:12 PM

The Browns' best O-Lineman and best pass-blocker per PFF was released today.

C J.C. Tretter also happens to be president of the player's union. Not sure Mike Brown wants that guy on the team.

Eric Winston played here and was a past President of the Players Union...getting Tretter moves Karas over to guard which he can handle. Be a good get for the Bengals...

WVRed

03-15-2022, 02:59 PM

Darius Phillips signs with the Raiders.

Bob Sheed

03-15-2022, 03:38 PM

KoryMac5

03-15-2022, 05:24 PM

Signing Gronk would be a mistake.

He's a pretty good blocker but he's slow as molasses. The chemistry he has with Brady is what sets him apart in the receiving game, and that would be absent as a Cincinnati Bengal.

Gronk has never been fast though it was more about using his body and finding soft spots in the zone...OJ Howard would be a guy i would look for on a 1yr prove it deal. The thing to also note in all of this is that Burrow and Moss are pretty tight from their LSU days...I could see Burrow talking him up to Taylor.

WVRed

03-15-2022, 10:57 PM

Trae Waynes is getting released tomorrow.

Kingspoint

03-15-2022, 11:02 PM

I'd be fine with Moses or Daryl Williams on a reasonable short term deal if they can't make it work with Collins if and when he's released, as expected.

Ravens signed Moses for $15M/3yrs.

That's too many years for the Bengals to invest in that spot for someone like Moses.

Big Red Smokey

03-15-2022, 11:49 PM

man, if they can get Tretter and Collins for around $14 mil combined a year, Shew.

membengal

03-16-2022, 09:49 AM

I'm gonna be pretty disappointed if we don't add a third lineman in FA. The contracts for Cappa and Karras were so good, there is room to do more work. They need to do more work.

Redsfaithful

03-16-2022, 10:25 AM

I'm gonna be pretty disappointed if we don't add a third lineman in FA. The contracts for Cappa and Karras were so good, there is room to do more work. They need to do more work.

Have to. I do worry they might be penciling in Carman at LG, which would only leave us RT to upgrade. Bringing back Reiff would be fine, but I'm hoping for more.

My other concern is that I don't think they're going to have enough depth again. I can't figure out the Fred Johnson resign. If he wasn't good enough to insert for Prince in the playoffs then I just can't view him as a useful piece. I really thought he'd play in the AFC Championship game and/or Super Bowl and I still don't understand the decision making there if it was based 100% on ability (i.e. if Johnson wasn't banged up or something).

I know it's hard, nobody is going 2-deep with starters on the offensive line, but they need viable NFL players as backups and I don't know if Prince or Adeniji qualify.

KoryMac5

03-16-2022, 10:40 AM

Bengals always let the market come to them later in FA look at Von Bell as an example...I think we will see another signing or 2 over the next few days

WVRed

03-16-2022, 10:47 AM

Austin Hooper anyone?

RiverRat13

03-16-2022, 10:59 AM

Let's say they have around $20 million left in cap, factoring in Waynes and Hopkins being cut but also the cushion they always say they have to have for picks and injuries. I think through FA and the first 3 draft picks they need to get:

2 CB
2 OL
TE
Backup 3 Tech

I would guess they sign a corner and another OL for sure. Probably a cheap veteran TE and then draft one sometime in rounds 2-4, although I'd rather they sign 2 OL and then go some combo of CB, TE, 3 Tech with those first three picks.

membengal

03-16-2022, 11:02 AM

Have to. I do worry they might be penciling in Carman at LG, which would only leave us RT to upgrade. Bringing back Reiff would be fine, but I'm hoping for more.

My other concern is that I don't think they're going to have enough depth again. I can't figure out the Fred Johnson resign. If he wasn't good enough to insert for Prince in the playoffs then I just can't view him as a useful piece. I really thought he'd play in the AFC Championship game and/or Super Bowl and I still don't understand the decision making there if it was based 100% on ability (i.e. if Johnson wasn't banged up or something).

I know it's hard, nobody is going 2-deep with starters on the offensive line, but they need viable NFL players as backups and I don't know if Prince or Adeniji qualify.

I'm ok if they just sign one more - four new starters felt unrealistic to me. And IF they sign one more, then their depth looks ok to me because a bunch of the guys pressed into service last year now have experience and are back-ups. That would be fine. But I want another IOL or a RT starter to make that so.

membengal

03-16-2022, 11:04 AM

Austin Hooper anyone?

Sure - him, Everett, OJ Howard, there are good options at TE available still.

WVRed

03-16-2022, 11:20 AM

Sure - him, Everett, OJ Howard, there are good options at TE available still.

I thought I read they were looking at Everett but hit a snag in negotiations so he’s not coming now.

Kingspoint

03-16-2022, 11:48 AM

Bengals always let the market come to them later in FA look at Von Bell as an example...I think we will see another signing or 2 over the next few days

There's still teams scrambling to get under the cap, cuts being made. Yesterday was a great day to reassess their plan after obtaining 3 quality players (one from their own team), reassessing the market, reassessing team needs and finances of all other 31 teams to see where monies are likely to be spent, so they can make intelligent offers for the right players over the next few days.

Kingspoint

03-16-2022, 12:05 PM

Hobson story today on B.J. Hill...

https://www.bengals.com/news/bengals-celebrate-b-j-hill-s-success-story-as-free-agency-becomes-official-wedne

Ohayou

03-16-2022, 02:06 PM

Just saw the Bucs got 2 years of Patriots G Shaq Mason for only a 5th. A nice un-retirement present for Brady...

Kingspoint

03-16-2022, 02:11 PM

Just saw the Bucs got 2 years of Patriots G Shaq Mason for only a 5th. A nice un-retirement present for Brady...

He actually may be better than Kappa.

KoryMac5

03-16-2022, 03:39 PM

He actually may be better than Kappa.

Odd that NE parted with him for just a 5th he was on a reasonable deal too at 8 million per

WrongVerb

03-16-2022, 04:40 PM

Imagine going 4 wide with Chase, Higgins, Boyd, and Julio Jones.

BuckeyeRed27

03-16-2022, 05:08 PM

Imagine going 4 wide with Chase, Higgins, Boyd, and Julio Jones.

Julio Jones is cooked.

WVRed

03-16-2022, 05:12 PM

Julio Jones is cooked.

Indeed.

I’d kick the tires with Jacksonville and see if they’d dump Laviska Shenault. With all their FA spending he’s likely to be the odd man out and kinda reminds me of Deebo Samuel if used right.

WrongVerb

03-16-2022, 05:15 PM

Julio Jones is cooked.

He'd be 4th on the depth chart for me. Also, I first read your comment as "crooked" and not "cooked." Lol

UKFlounder

03-16-2022, 05:25 PM

If RT is not addressed, another WR is not a huge benefit.

Free agency is still early, so hopefully (and presumably) they are working on plans we haven’t heard yet.

CTA513

03-16-2022, 06:43 PM

LS Clark Harris brought back on a 1 year deal.

https://twitter.com/Bengals/status/1504139285842300940

Redsfaithful

03-16-2022, 06:57 PM

LS Clark Harris brought back on a 1 year deal.

https://twitter.com/Bengals/status/1504139285842300940

Never will I take this position for granted after watching Brad St. Louis melt down. Happy to keep Clark as long he wants to play.

WVRed

03-16-2022, 07:00 PM

One less TE off the board. OJ Howard to the Bills.

Steelers sign Myles Jack. That could be an underrated signing.

Kingspoint

03-16-2022, 07:05 PM

One less TE off the board. OJ Howard to the Bills.

Steelers sign Myles Jack. That could be an underrated signing.

Myles Jack has nothing left. He's toast.

- - - Updated - - -

If RT is not addressed, another WR is not a huge benefit.

Free agency is still early, so hopefully (and presumably) they are working on plans we haven’t heard yet.

We're grabbing a RT in FA. That's a 100% fact, jack!

Tony Cloninger

03-16-2022, 08:58 PM

Williams from Buffalo?

I wished they signed Saffold. Never have enough OL.

Kingspoint

03-16-2022, 09:24 PM

Williams from Buffalo?

I wished they signed Saffold. Never have enough OL.

Williams who?

Tony Cloninger

03-16-2022, 09:43 PM

Williams who?

You know that RT from Buffalo that was just released. Old what’s his name.

UKFlounder

03-16-2022, 09:57 PM

Darryl Williams

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daryl_Williams_(American_football)

Kingspoint

03-17-2022, 04:30 AM

Definitely a possibility...one of many Veterans that would fit that mold of holding down the fort for one season (and be a huge upgrade over anything we have right now) at a cheap price while the 31st pick gets a season under his belt...if two are needed, they can do it again.

Dom Heffner

03-17-2022, 02:11 PM

Collins released by the Cowboys....Bengal nation gonna be sad if we dont sign him.

Benihana

03-17-2022, 02:38 PM

Makes zero sense why we didn’t send them a Day 3 pick for Collins.

It’s one thing if we decided we didn’t want him at all, but the reporting is that we will definitely be in on the bidding.

redsfandan

03-17-2022, 03:03 PM

The Collins cut is being designated a June 1st cut so it might be a while until he decides where he wants to sign.

UKFlounder

03-17-2022, 03:18 PM

Bengals sign TE Hayden Hurst to a 1-year deal

WVRed

03-17-2022, 03:25 PM

Bengals sign TE Hayden Hurst to a 1-year deal

Beat me to it.

Also the Ravens deal with ZaDarius Smith fell through.

The Operator

03-17-2022, 03:26 PM

Never will I take this position for granted after watching Brad St. Louis melt down. Happy to keep Clark as long he wants to play.

You aren’t kidding. Didn’t a blown long snap in 2006 basically keep The Bengals out of the playoffs or at least ruin their chance to get in?

I feel like they had engineered a game tying drive in Denver but the blown long snap resulted in a 1 point loss. It’s been a long time but that sticks out in my mind.

Then, it was seemingly downhill from there. Lots of high profile snap miscues.

WrongVerb

03-17-2022, 03:45 PM

Makes zero sense why we didn’t send them a Day 3 pick for Collins.

It’s one thing if we decided we didn’t want him at all, but the reporting is that we will definitely be in on the bidding.

I suspect Dallas wanted a more valuable pick than anyone was willing to send, since they'd be taking a $10M cap hit with a trade, but only $1.3M cap hit with a release.

bm1475

03-17-2022, 04:26 PM

You aren’t kidding. Didn’t a blown long snap in 2006 basically keep The Bengals out of the playoffs or at least ruin their chance to get in?

I feel like they had engineered a game tying drive in Denver but the blown long snap resulted in a 1 point loss. It’s been a long time but that sticks out in my mind.

Then, it was seemingly downhill from there. Lots of high profile snap miscues.

You're correct about 2006, although St. Louis's ultimate meltdown was early in the 2009 season, and they stuck with him for much longer than most teams would have.

He was the Bengals' long snapper from 2000-2009, and was replaced by... Clark Harris.

The Bengals long snappers are like the Steelers coaches, we go from one stalwart to another.