Ask Jim Owczarski

[jowczarski]

Since the Bengals seem to let their rookies ease their way into the lineup, who is the "next guy up?"
I know Fisher and Ogbouie will probably see more playing time next year, but are there any guys that will step into major playing time next year?

Ogbuehi will be the starting RT in my opinion. The rest of the line is locked up for at least 1 more year and they'll want that continuity. Shaw and Dawson will see elevated roles due to attrition. I don't think Leon Hall will be back, and it's possible Jones gets signed away. That leaves a spot for the rookie. I think Lamur was on his way out anyway, but now for sure (I don't have an official diagnosis on his knee, but having had multiple torn ligaments on my own, I have a good feel for what has happened based on the immediate aftermath. The fact he was on crutches postgame was not good). Vinny Rey is a "glue" guy but he's also a UFA. I think they'll keep Hawk around as a fill-in for the last year of his deal but Dawson should jump him when it comes to nickel or fill-in base if Maualuga or Burfict get hurt.