National media outlet names the primary offseason need for the Bengals
Pro Football Focus named each team's biggest offseason need this week and their choice for the Cincinnati Bengals wasn't surprising. PFF's Sam Monson listed offensive tackle as the Bengals' biggest offseason need. From PFF: Cincinnati’s offensive line fell apart because of injuries late in the season but lost in all that was how poorly former […]
Pro Football Focus named each team's biggest offseason need this week and their choice for the Cincinnati Bengals wasn't surprising.
PFF's Sam Monson listed offensive tackle as the Bengals' biggest offseason need.
Cincinnati’s offensive line fell apart because of injuries late in the season but lost in all that was how poorly former first-round draft pick Jonah Williams played all season at left tackle. Williams tied for the most sacks surrendered by any tackle (12) in the regular season and earned just a 49.9 run-blocking grade.
Though La’el Collins was an upgrade at right tackle, his success primarily came from his work as a run-blocker, as he surrendered 34 pressures and put up a 44.2 pass-blocking grade.
Cincinnati’s work on the offensive line is not done.
It's easy to say that offensive tackle is a big need. Fixing it, however, is a bit tougher.
There aren't a bunch of obvious answers at tackle in free agency. And even if there were, the Bengals have to be cautious about how they spend this offseason due to Joe Burrow's looming extension (as well as Ja'Marr Chase's after the 2023 season).
That's not to say Cincy can't spend, they just need to have an eye toward future salary cap issues.
The best way to improve the offensive line is through the draft.
Cincinnati could consider selecting someone like Tennessee Vols offensive lineman Darnell Wright (who is primarily a right tackle) in the first round. Wright's had a great week at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, AL. And he's from Huntington, WV which is just a couple of hours away from Cincinnati.
The Bengals' roster is in a good spot, but they have some areas where they need some work. Just like last offseason, the offensive line is a good place to start.
Featured image via Kareem Elgazzar/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK
