Analyze our Roster

[*SHRacerX*]

(09-03-2017, 06:40 PM)SunsetBengal Wrote:   They chose to allow arguably their two best OL to go to FA, without signing any suitable replacements, other than the often injured Andre Smith. (take that for what you will)  Then, they draft one sorry guy, in a late round, that was injured most of last season, and then proceed to cut him. 

I disagree, Sunset.  The Bengals drafted Ced and Fisher to be the heir apparent two years ago, wisely before there was a need.  They also drafted Westerman last year and have developed a UDFA in Redmond that they have a high opinion of.  Hopkins is the classic player the Bengals love...an UDFA that works his ass off despite some injury misfortues and plays himself in to the starting lineup.  They have very solid depth at Guard, but at OT, they are paper thin and that worries me.  I don't know if they would try someone like Hopkins or Boling at OT and bring in one of the aforementioned guys to fill the spot they would vacate or what.  There is still some time to get a veteran OT that would replace the role previously held by Winston (Who JJ Watt is very sorry to see has left the team).

I think they are in win-now mode, as they are trying to give Andy weapons that he hasn't had before in guys like Ross, Mixon, Malone (although Core started to flash last year, they needed depth at WR as they always seem to lose a few top guys then have no one that can generate separation).  

They also went all-in on speed on defense, drafting Evans, Willis, Lawson, and making a trade for Smith (which looks brilliant thus far).  

Every team has gaps in their talent and/or experience at some place on the roster, but overall I really, really like where this team is at going in to the season.  It has nothing to do with the roster, but I also like that no one seems to be giving them much of a chance this season, and even if they start off well, they will still be hearing the "well, they will lose in round 1" crap.