Fixing the Bengals

[*ochocincos*]

In order of priority...

1) Find a better DL coach than Marion Hobby and/or alter the defensive scheme to cater more to the DL's strengths. The dudes they got are not producing and none of the DL draft picks in the Taylor era really haven't since they were added.

2) Let Higgins walk and sign Chase to a big extension. Bengals should not pay $50+ mill APY for two WRs.

3) Get a more budget-friendly WR who can replace Higgins. I prefer to look at FA for someone who has proven to get 700-800 yards that will cost under $15 mill APY, but I'd also be somewhat ok taking a WR in Rd 1 or Rd 2 if not finding a good option in FA.
(Yes, I do realize a WR who averages 700-800 yards a year is lower than Higgins' 1000 average. However, you pay a premium for a guy like that and other guys should be able to step up if WR2 isn't quite as productive as Higgins)

4) See if a better OL coach can be found and/or alter the offensive scheme to cater more to the offense's strengths.

5) Plan to get 1-2 new OL and 1-2 new DL in the draft and/or FA who can make an impact within a year, two at most.

6) Personally, I'd put more emphasis on the running game and get a true upgrade to Zack Moss in the draft if there's a stud available. RB seems to be where a lot of teams can get pretty quick contributions from a draft pick for 3-5 years and then rinse and repeat in the draft if not able or willing to pay for a vet RB.

7) If the above needs are met such that the draft would allow, I'd love to see more of a pass-catching TE taken early in the 2025 draft to pair with All, Sample, and McLachlan (although I'd like to see McLachlan get some snaps this year too). I personally like Colston Loveland, Harold Fannin, Tyler Warren, or Luke Lachey.