03-20-2022, 01:46 PM
(03-20-2022, 01:23 PM)jj22 Wrote: Rather people are ready to realize it or not, we've lost more than we've gained. We've downgraded from CJ if only the locker room presence (and it's a tough sell to say we've upgraded), lost Spain, lost larry O, lost Reiff, haven't upgraded one of the worst pass defenses, in a conference that has upgraded it's pass catchers and qb's.... We've strengthened Center and RG and people will hang their hats on that to claim we haven't fallen behind, but other spots have taken hits.
The only concern I have is RT and depth at DT. If it doesn’t work out with Collins then they will have to figure out another way to solidify the RT spot. I think they will get some guys to help with the CB and WR areas where it gets thin after the starters.
Interior O line was the weakest group on the team last year and they have made big upgrades there so I don’t think they are worse off at this point. TE is still similar to what they had with CJ but not a major concern for a position where that guy is going to be the 4th or 5th option on almost every play.
I am concerned at how many good players have come to the AFC but by week 1 the Bengals will be just as talented as every other top team. The top 5 or so teams in the AFC will all have SB caliber rosters. Injuries and luck will play a big part in how teams finish next year.
The Bengals are fortunate in that they didn’t need to make any big splash FA signings/trades at the skill positions like the Browns, Raiders and Broncos did because they already have studs at those positions.
