07-24-2021, 10:03 AM
(07-22-2021, 02:19 PM)PDub80 Wrote: I think the deal is that the past 2 seasons were a complete rebuild because thw roster sucked. The window slammed shut from Marvin's 2nd go at it and the sinking into the abyss from 2016 on is clear proof of that.
Where are the stars from 2011-2018 at today? Where's Burfict? Jones? Hall? Kirkpatrick? Dalton? Green? Hill? Atkins? Eifert & Gresham? Reggie Nelson? Sanu & Jones? None panned out long term at the teams they left Cincy for.
Where are the studs that had the Bengals as a playoff contender every season? With the exception of Dunlap, Bernard, & Whitworth... are they even playing.... and, if they are... are they impact players? No. No longer. It was over for that group.
Now, take the above facts and pair them with several years ina. row with less than great drafts (bad, really) and cheap FA band-aids through the 2018 season. Where do you think that puts a 1st year HC in season 1? Now throw in COVID for season 2?
I believe the Food Network has the above listed as a recipe for DISASTER.
This is why I don't just completely bash ZT and am ok watching this develop. My mind is open on ZT... especially with the players seemingly all in under his leadership.
The Bengals weren't close when Taylor took over. They had one of the worst rosters in the league heading into the 2019 season. Now, though? In 2021 ZT has the tools... HIS TOOLS... to make major gains over his previous seasons. If not, he needs to go. 8+ wins should be a minimum expectation for this staff and this roster.
Also drafts have been poor until last year