04-19-2017, 02:17 PM
(04-18-2017, 11:51 AM)SunsetBengal Wrote: I see many people suggesting that the Bengals are going to load up on offensive weapons in the upcoming draft. My question is, just how many new "parts" can the offensive machine put it, and run well? As we noticed last year with the WR position, you can't always just put new bodies out there, and expect no drop-offs in production. It takes time for people working together to understand each other's tendencies and abilities.
This year, we are not only looking to replace two spots on the OL, but now likely a starting TE, and possibly RB. Honestly, under typical circumstances, incorporating a new RB should be relatively routine stuff, so long as he understands the offense and can pass pro. However, this year, with new players at LT and RG, it will take extra time for things to settle into a rhythm. At TE, you almost have to think that with the news that Eiftert isn't going to be ready, that in an effort to keep as much continuity on the field as possible, that Uzomah will start and Kroft will be 1st backup, no matter WHO they take in the draft. Same goes with WR, they resigned Lafell for a reason, he developed continuity and consistency with Andy, and the season wore on. Boyd and Core looked better and better the second half of the season. I see any WR drafted having to bide his time for reps.
What are your thoughts?
It's a good thought to ponder. Personally, I think the team drafts a TE, WR, RB and at least 1 Olineman in this years draft, but I'm not sure if any are round 1, but that's all dependent on who is available when we pick.
Me personally, I'm not drafting an offensive player in round 1 unless no defensive players I want are there. If this is the case then I'll look at 1 of the top 2 WR's in Davis/Williams. Howard might be the best TE in the draft, but I want to see more of Uzo and Kroft, besides we could get a nice mid-round TE prospect. I think people think if we get Howard that we're all of a sudden going to be running 2 TE sets. We hardly do that. As far as WR goes, we drafted Boyd who played well as the slot WR and Core who played well at the end of the season when he received snaps. I think with resigning Lafell who also played well, that the need for WR in round 1 is minimal, plus there are so many good prospects to be had in rounds 3-5. RB is also deep and I think if Mixon is there in the 2nd or 3rd that that will be the pick, I just can't justify drafting a rb at 9.
All in all, I do think we draft at least 1 from all the positions I mentioned above.
