I am actually kind of excited for next season

[*Go Cards*]

(03-27-2017, 10:45 AM)Beaker Wrote: I know a lot of people think the Bengals are in the crapper next season due to FA losses, but I am kind of excited now to see how all the new blood plays out. I realize it will likely not be a playoff season, but I actually think the Bengals will be better than this past season next year. My reasons for enthusiasm:

1. I think we have a lot of good young talent that we have not seen (or seen much of) yet. Guys like WJIII, Billings, Cody Core (who should get more looks now that James Wright is gone), a season of experience under Boyd's belt, etc.

2. I think our young OTs will step up. Fisher had done a decent job when in, and I think Ogbuehi will be a much different player in year two. He has basically been injured the whole time until being thrown in this season. I think with finally a full off season where he is not rehabbing, and getting full OTAs, mini camp and training camp, he will be much better. Lapham and the coaches have all steadfastly stood by him despite his struggles and maintained that they see something in him. I trust Lapham the most to make that assessment. I also remember Whit worth struggled mightily his first season at OT. He even had a game where he simply could not block Dwight Freeney....but Whitworth came around, didn't he?

3. The players we can get in the draft. With a high draft position, and 11 picks, the Bengals can really get some quality players, and be much younger and faster in many positions.

4. We have a solid core still in place, so it won't be a rebuild, its more like a retooling by changing out some of the older parts. Bottom line is the old combination of parts was just not quite good enough, so let's buy some shiney new parts and see how she runs.

I think it will be a fun and exciting time, yes we may have to step back for a season or two, but after that, there could be some real rewards. Now if they could just release Adam Jones.

Awesome to hear somebody has excitement for next year. Did in 2011 but do not as much this year. 

Yet in 2011 thought it was addition by subtraction, thought Chad and TO were selfish and Carson just flat out hated living in Ohio. Plus jumped for joy when Brat was released and Gruden was added. Then Dalton and AJ came on board and I was stoked. Was sure AJ was the real deal and believed Grudens brother Jon made the Dalton pick for us indirectly.  So felt he would work out. 

That team lost some great statistical leaders, yet felt they never bought in. This team lost many good coaches the last few years and solid players to boot who I felt all bought in. 

But if O-line can improve somehow and a pass rusher is drafted that could change this year for sure. Hope to feel better after draft. Going to attend draft party for the first time ever this year as well to try and raise spirits. 

Even if not do believe it will much better the following year if a mass exodus does not start. 

Glad to hear your optimism without scolding others while giving it. 

Hope you are right and I  and many others are wrong. Thanks needed a rational optimist.