Defensive Improvements

[*ochocincos*]

(05-27-2021, 12:51 PM)TJHoushmandzadeh Wrote: I see two guys, maybe three if Hendrikson isn't an one season wonder, on that D I'd consider above average, top 15 at their position type guys.

The others aren't bad players but if that D is pushing top 10 then the Bengals should be making a deep play-off run and Anarumo should be getting Head Coach interviews.

Compare it to the O - where there's a no.1 overall QB; Chase, Higgins and Boyd at WR; Mixon at RB; a top 12 pick at OT in Jonah Williams. Now that's a unit that should be top 15.

My expectations for the starting defense:
Hendrickson - above average (in pass rush at least)
Hubbard - average (above avg in run defense, below avg in pass rush)
Ogunjobi - average (had a down year in CLE after playing NT)
Reader - above average (near elite in run defense, commanding double teams. if not, not worth the $$)

Pratt - below average
Wilson - below average

Waynes - at least average (if not, waste of $$)
Awuzie - decent as a CB2, will have ups and downs
Hilton - above average slot
Bates - elite
Bell - average to above average for SS expectations

To me, there are only a few guys below average, but a few guys above average, so it should kinda balance out to be an average defense.
If the Bengals end up in the 14-18 range, that's average.