PD&Jay: Day 3 free agency recap (now with 100% more defensive tackles!)
In this episode of The Growler podcast, the discussion revolves around the Cincinnati Bengals' recent moves in free agency. The hosts analyze the signing of defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins and the implications of DJ Reader's potential departure, highlighting the team's need for a run-stopping defensive tackle.
They also examine the addition of tight end Mike Gesicki and its impact on the offense. As the Bengals undergo a transition in team culture with many veteran departures, questions arise about emerging leadership and the development of a new identity. Additionally, the speculative possibility of Tyler Boyd joining his hometown team, the Pittsburgh Steelers, is explored, delving into the potential storyline and its fit within the Steelers' offensive scheme.
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1-Page Summary
Signing of Sheldon Rankins
The Bengals signed the older Sheldon Rankins to strengthen their interior pass rush, as he ranked 10th among interior defenders in pass rush win rate. Rankins is expected to play around 500 snaps focusing on pass rushing in a role similar to Larry Ogunjobi's. However, Rankins ranked poorly in run stopping and missed tackle percentage last year, raising concerns about a potential decline in his overall play.
DJ Reader's Injury Comeback and Free Agency Status
DJ Reader is visiting teams like the Detroit Lions as he recovers from injury, suggesting an active market for his services. The Bengals are unlikely to pay market value for Reader's return unless the market dries up, in which case he could return on a cheaper one-year prove-it deal. Regardless, the Bengals still need to add a run-stopping defensive tackle, with Tyson Alualu being the most likely target.
Addition of Mike Gesicki
The addition of tight end Mike Gesicki has been praised as adding a different dimension as a big slot receiver. His excellent receiving skills, including a 11.5 yards per reception average and productivity in the red zone and on third downs, present a "nightmare matchup for defenses." The signing also indicates confidence in the offensive line personnel, enabling them to commit to their preferred 11 personnel.
Need for Emerging Leadership
With many core Super Bowl veterans like Joe Mixon gone, the Bengals need to establish new leadership. Only a few Super Bowl starters remain, so the identity and leadership must come from young players like Joe Burrow, who may need to be more vocal. Jay Morrison notes the significance of this shift in team culture.
Speculation on Tyler Boyd Joining Steelers
There's speculation around Pittsburgh native Tyler Boyd potentially finishing his career with his hometown team, the Steelers, after Deontay Johnson's departure. The commentators note this could be a great storyline for Boyd, making sense for the Steelers' offense and need at slot receiver. However, no specifics about negotiations are provided.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Pass rush win rate measures how often a defender beats their blocker within 2.5 seconds on passing plays. It is a key metric for evaluating a player's effectiveness in generating pressure on the quarterback. A high pass rush win rate indicates a player's ability to disrupt the opposing team's passing game consistently. It is a crucial statistic for assessing a defensive lineman's impact on the field.
- Larry Ogunjobi is a defensive tackle known for his ability to disrupt the opposing team's passing game. He excels in generating pressure on the quarterback from the interior of the defensive line. Ogunjobi's role typically involves focusing on rushing the passer and creating havoc in the backfield to disrupt the opposing team's offensive plays. His playing style emphasizes quickness, strength, and technique to penetrate the offensive line and make plays in the opponent's backfield.
- Market value in NFL contracts represents the worth of a player's skills and performance in relation to what other players at their position are earning. It is determined by factors like player statistics, experience, and demand from other teams. Teams often use market value as a benchmark when negotiating contracts to ensure they are offering competitive compensation to players based on their value in the league. Players may seek to maximize their earnings by leveraging their performance and market demand to secure contracts that reflect their market value.
- A one-year prove-it deal in NFL contracts is a short-term agreement where a player signs for a single season to showcase their skills and performance, often with the goal of securing a more lucrative contract in the future. Players typically opt for prove-it deals when they want to prove their value after injury or underperformance. These contracts are structured to incentivize the player to perform well during that season to increase their market value for upcoming negotiations. If successful, the player can then negotiate a more substantial and longer-term contract based on their improved performance.
- In football strategy, 11 personnel signifies a formation with one running back, one tight end, and three wide receivers on the field. This formation is commonly used for passing plays due to the additional receiving options it provides. Teams often utilize 11 personnel to spread out the defense and create mismatches in the passing game.
- Tyler Boyd potentially finishing his career with the Steelers suggests the idea of him playing for his hometown team in Pittsburgh after his time with the Bengals. This speculation arises due to the departure of another wide receiver from the Steelers, creating a perceived need for Boyd's skills in their offense. It's a common storyline in sports for players to return to their hometown teams later in their careers, adding a sentimental and narrative element to their professional journey. The move would not only impact Boyd's career trajectory but also potentially strengthen the Steelers' receiving corps.
Counterarguments
- While Sheldon Rankins may strengthen the interior pass rush, his poor performance in run defense could be a liability, especially in critical situations where stopping the run is paramount.
- Ranking 10th in pass rush win rate is commendable, but it's important to consider the context of the statistic, such as the defensive scheme he was in and the quality of his teammates.
- Playing around 500 snaps primarily in pass-rushing situations might limit Rankins' impact on the game and make the defense more predictable.
- DJ Reader's active market could drive up his price, and the Bengals' reluctance to pay market value might lead to a gap in their defensive line if they can't secure a suitable replacement.
- Targeting Tyson Alualu as a run-stopper assumes he can fill the void left by Reader, but Alualu's age and recent performance should be scrutinized to ensure he's the best option.
- Mike Gesicki's addition as a big slot receiver assumes that the Bengals' offensive line can consistently provide enough protection for plays to develop, which may not always be the case.
- Gesicki's productivity in the red zone and on third downs is valuable, but it's also important to consider his overall consistency and ability to contribute to the offense on all downs.
- The confidence in the offensive line indicated by Gesicki's signing may be premature if the line has not been adequately tested or improved from the previous season.
- Establishing new leadership is critical, but assuming young players like Joe Burrow can immediately fill the void may overlook the time it takes to develop leadership skills and team chemistry.
- The significance of the shift in team culture noted by Jay Morrison could be a double-edged sword, potentially leading to growing pains as the team adjusts to new leadership dynamics.
- Speculation about Tyler Boyd joining the Steelers is just that—speculation—and until there are concrete negotiations or a signed contract, it remains an unsubstantiated possibility.
- Boyd's fit with the Steelers' offense and need at slot receiver assumes that he would seamlessly integrate into their system, which may not account for differences in offensive schemes or chemistry with a new quarterback.
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Signing of defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins
The Bengals have made a strategic move by signing Sheldon Rankins, though it's a decision that comes with certain concessions and risks.
Rankins is older than typical Bengals free agent target
In an effort to fill the gap in their defensive lineup, the Bengals had to deviate from their usual strategy and opt for an older player than they typically target in free agency. Given the limited availability of top-tier defensive tackle talent, they may have had to overpay to secure Rankins' services.
Adds much-needed interior pass rush
Rankins' acquisition addresses a key area of weakness for the Bengals; last year, they suffered from a lackluster pass rush from the interior defensive line.
Rankins ranked 10th among interior defenders in pass rush win rate
Rankins stood out in the 2021 season with a 14.6% pass rush win rate, positioning him 10th among interior defenders, a significant upgrade for the Bengals. With DJ Reader and BJ Hill ranking 19th and 54th, respectively, Rankins improves the team's capacity to disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
Upgrades pass rush at 3-technique defensive tackle spot
The Bengals plan to utilize Rankins in a role similar to Larry Ogunjobi's, expecting to put him on the f ...
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Signing of defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Pass rush win rate measures how often a defender beats their blocker within 2.5 seconds of the snap. It indicates a player's effectiveness in pressuring the quarterback. A higher pass rush win rate signifies a more disruptive player in creating pressure on the opposing team's passing game. It is a key metric used to evaluate the performance of defensive linemen in generating pressure on the quarterback.
- A 3-technique defensive tackle is a player who lines up on the outside shoulder of the offensive guard. This position is known for its focus on penetrating the offensive line to disrupt plays, especially in passing situations. The 3-technique tackle is typically more agile and focused on generating interior pressure on the quarterback.
- Larry Ogunjobi was a defensive tackle who played for the Cincinnati Bengals before Sheldon Rankins. Ogunjobi's role involved focusing on pass rushing and playing around 500 snaps. The Bengals expect Rankins to fill a similar role to Ogunjobi, emphasizing pass rushing abilities over run defense. Comparing the two players helps understand how Rankins is intended to contribute to the team's defensive strategy.
- Run stopping metrics in football measure a defender's effectiveness in stopping the opposing team's running plays. These metrics help evaluate a player's ability to disrupt the run game by making tackles near the line of scrimmage. They include stats like tackles for loss, run stop percentage, and missed tackle percentage, providing insights into a player's impact on defending a ...
Counterarguments
- Age can bring experience and leadership qualities that younger players may lack, potentially adding value beyond just on-field performance.
- The market value for players fluctuates, and what may seem like an overpayment could reflect the current going rate for a player of Rankins' caliber.
- Interior pass rush is a critical component of a successful defense, and the importance of strengthening this area could justify the investment in Rankins despite his age.
- Statistics from a single season, such as pass rush win rate, may not fully capture a player's ability or potential contribution to a new team's scheme.
- The Bengals' willingness to deviate from their typical free agent profile suggests a flexible and adaptive approach to team-building, which can be a strength.
- The comparison to Larry Ogunjobi's role may not fully account for Rankins' unique skill set and how he might be utilized differently within the Bengals' defensive strategy.
- Concerns about decline due to age are speculative and may not materialize, especially if Rankins is used strategically to maximize his strengths.
- Run defense is a collective effort, and the pres ...
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Status of DJ Reader's injury comeback and free agency
As the NFL offseason progresses, discussions around free agency and player comebacks are heating up. One such topic is the future of DJ Reader and his possible return to the field after injury.
Reader visiting Detroit Lions
DJ Reader is in the process of making his comeback from injury and it is understood that he is exploring his options in free agency. Among the teams potentially interested in his services are the Detroit Lions. Reader's visits suggest that the market for his skills as a defensive tackle is active and that teams are assessing his fit within their line-ups following his recovery.
Unlikely Bengals pay market value for Reader to return
The hosts point out that the Cincinnati Bengals are unlikely to pay the market value for Reader's return to the team. Given the dynamics of NFL contracts and the financial considerations teams have to make, it appears the Bengals may not invest third or fourth day of free agency money in bringing Reader back.
Reader likely only returns on cheaper one-year prove-it deal if market dries up
Dehner suggests that the Bengals’ management might consider having Reader back but only on a more cost-effective basis. Should the market not offer DJ Reader the deal he seeks, there is a possibility he could return to the Bengals on a cheaper, one-year prove-it deal. This type of agreement could allow Reader to demonstrate his capabilities post-injury while not locking the team into a long-term financial commitment.
Still need to add run-stopping defensive tackle
Despite ...
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Status of DJ Reader's injury comeback and free agency
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- DJ Reader, a defensive tackle in the NFL, is currently recovering from an injury. Teams like the Detroit Lions are showing interest in him as he explores his options in free agency. The Cincinnati Bengals, his previous team, may not be willing to pay his market value for a return, but they could consider a more cost-effective deal if the market doesn't meet Reader's expectations. Despite the uncertainty, the Bengals are still looking to strengthen their defensive line, particularly with a focus on adding a run-stopping defensive tackle.
- NFL contracts are structured agreements between players and teams that outline the terms of employment, including salary, bonuses, and other financial incentives. Teams must consider salary cap restrictions when signing players to ensure they stay within the league's financial limits. Financial decisions in the NFL are influenced by factors like a player's performance, injury history, market value, and the team's overall budget. Teams often strategize to balance player compensation with the need to maintain a competitive roster within the constraints of the salary cap system.
- A "prove-it deal" in NFL free agency is a short-term contract typically offered to a player who is looking to demonstrate their value or abilities, often due to previous injury or performance concerns. It allows the player to showcase their skills for a season without a long-term commitment from the team, with the potential to secure a more lucrative contract in the future based on their performance during that season. These deals are structured to incentivize the player to perform at a high level to earn a better contract in the future.
- A run-stopping defensive tackle in football is crucial for disrupting the opposing team's running game. They excel at clogging up running lanes, shedding blocks, and maki ...
Counterarguments
- The interest of the Detroit Lions in DJ Reader could be exploratory and not necessarily indicative of a strong intent to sign him.
- The Bengals' valuation of DJ Reader could change based on other free agency moves or if they reassess his importance to their defensive scheme.
- It's possible that Reader could receive a competitive offer from another team, negating the assumption that he would only return to the Bengals on a cheaper deal.
- The Bengals might prioritize other positions or players over a run-stopping defensive tackle, depending on th ...
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Addition of tight end Mike Gesicki
The team's addition of tight end Mike Gesicki has sparked positive reactions from commentators, emphasizing his versatile role and the confidence the signing reflects in the offensive line.
Gesicki adds different dimension as big slot receiver
Jay Morrison and others have shared their enthusiasm for the addition of Mike Gesicki, heralding him as a different dimension to the team's offense. Gesicki's ability to function essentially as a receiver in the tight end position provides the team flexibility to maintain their preferred 11 personnel lineup while effectively playing with four wide receivers.
Excellent red zone and third down weapon
Gesicki's performance history, including an impressive average of 11.5 yards per reception and roughly 600 yards a season in Miami, is notable even though he wasn't in an offense tailored to a tight end. Now paired with Joe Burrow's accuracy and the team's offensive style, Gesicki's potential for productivity is heightened. His role as a reliable red zone and third-down target, along with his proficiency in making contested catches, make him a valuable asset to the team.
Nightmare matchup for defenses
Gesicki's size and catching ability present a difficult matchup for opposing defenses, often leading to mismatches against smaller slot corners. His history of consistent touchdown receptions, with at least five in three different seasons, solidifies his role as a significant weapon for the team.
Signing indicat ...
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Addition of tight end Mike Gesicki
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Joe Burrow's accuracy in this context refers to his ability to consistently throw the football to his intended target with precision. This accuracy is a highly valued trait in a quarterback as it helps in completing passes effectively and efficiently. Burrow's accuracy is seen as a key factor in maximizing the potential productivity of tight end Mike Gesicki as a receiving target in the team's offensive strategy.
- Mismatch against smaller slot corners occurs when a larger and typically more physical player, like a tight end, faces a smaller and potentially less physical cornerback who is often positioned in the slot area of the defense. This size and strength difference can give the larger player an advantage in catching passes and winning physical battles, making it challenging for the smaller cornerback to effectively defend against them. This mismatch is often exploited by offenses to gain an advantage in passing situations, especially in the red zone or on critical downs.
- Five-man protections in football refer to the offensive strategy where the offensive line is responsible for blocking ...
Counterarguments
- Gesicki's role as a big slot receiver might limit the team's ability to surprise defenses with varied tight end usages.
- While Gesicki is praised for his receiving skills, his blocking abilities might not be as strong, which could be a liability in certain offensive schemes.
- The emphasis on Gesicki's red zone and third-down capabilities assumes consistent performance, which may not hold true in a new offensive system or against different defensive schemes.
- Describing Gesicki as a nightmare matchup overlooks the fact that defenses could adjust by using larger safeties or linebackers in coverage, potentially neutralizing his size advantage.
- The signing indicating confidence in the offensive line doesn't account for the possibility of injuries or performance decline, which could necessitate additional blocking support.
- Relying on five ...
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Emergence of next core leadership group needed
As the composition of the team changes, the Cincinnati Bengals confront the need to establish new core leadership.
Most core culture veterans from Super Bowl team now gone
The hosts reflect on the end of an era with the official Joe Mixon trade and highlight that Sam Hubbard is now among the few players remaining from the Marvin Lewis era.
Only a few Super Bowl starters remain on roster
Jay Morrison emphasizes that with the departure of many foundational players, a dramatic shift in team composition has occurred. Only about seven or eight Super Bowl starters are expected to remain in the starting lineup for the upcoming season. This diminution of core culture veterans indicates a pressing need for the Bengals to develop emerging leadership among the active roster.
Identity and leadership must come from young players like Joe Burrow
Paul Dehner Jr. reminisces about Joe Mixon's role as "The juice and energy of those teams" and as a significant part of the core that competed in the Super Bowl. With Mixon’s departure and the league's constant changes, there exists a vacuum in the team's dynamic and foundational co ...
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Emergence of next core leadership group needed
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Clarifications
- The Cincinnati Bengals are an NFL team based in Cincinnati, Ohio. They have recently undergone significant changes in their roster composition, with key veteran players departing. This has led to a shift in the team's core leadership group, creating a need for emerging leaders to step up, particularly among younger players like Joe Burrow, Logan Wilson, Cam Taylor-Britt, and Jamar Chase. Joe Burrow, the team's quarterback, is highlighted as a key figure who may need to take on a more vocal leadership role in light of these changes.
- Joe Mixon, Sam Hubbard, Logan Wilson, Cam Taylor-Britt, and Jamar Chase are all players for the Cincinnati Bengals, an American football team. Marvin Lewis is a former head coach of the Bengals. These players are mentioned in the text in the context of changes in the team's composition and the need for new leadership to emerge within the organization.
- Marvin Lewis was the head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals from 2003 to 2018. During his tenure, he led the team to multiple playoff appearances but did not secure a Super Bowl victory. The "Marvin Lewis era" is a reference to the period when Lewis was the head coach and had a significant influence on the team's culture and performance. Lewis is known for his long tenure with the Bengals and his impact on shaping the team during his time as hea ...
Counterarguments
- Leadership can emerge organically and may not need to be as deliberate or planned as suggested.
- Veterans outside of the core Super Bowl group could still provide valuable leadership and mentorship.
- Leadership is not solely the responsibility of high-profile players like Joe Burrow; role players and less prominent team members can also be influential leaders.
- The focus on young players as the primary source of leadership may overlook the potential contributions of new veteran players who join the team.
- The assumption that Joe Burrow needs to be more vocal might not align with his natural leadership style or the team's needs ...
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Speculation on Tyler Boyd signing with Steelers
There's a growing buzz around the possibility of free agent Tyler Boyd signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a speculation fueled by various factors linked to both the player and the team.
Pittsburgh native Boyd could return home to finish career
Boyd's connection to the city of Pittsburgh is strong, given his roots from high school and his tenure playing at the University of Pittsburgh. The sentiment around Boyd possibly returning to his hometown to finish his NFL career is pronounced, creating a storyline that resonates with both the player and local fans.
Would be great storyline for Boyd to play in Pittsburgh
DeRay Mckesson mentions the departure of Deontay Johnson from the Steelers, which opens up the possibility for Tyler Boyd to fill that void and return to Pittsburgh. The potential move is touted as a plausible and appealing storyline, with Boyd's return to his home city to finish out his playing days being seen as an exemplary narrative arc for the athlete.
Makes sense for Steelers' offense and need at slot receiver
Jay Morrison considers Pittsburgh a suitable fit for Boyd, particularly as he advances in age and with Pittsburgh providing a less demanding media environment compared to other cities like New York. Given Boyd's experience and his potential fit within the ...
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Speculation on Tyler Boyd signing with Steelers
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Clarifications
- DeRay Mckesson is a civil rights activist known for his work in the Black Lives Matter movement. He is also a prominent figure in social justice advocacy and has been involved in various campaigns and initiatives related to racial equality and police reform. Mckesson's perspectives are often sought after in discussions involving social issues and current events, given his background and expertise in activism.
- Pittsburgh is considered a suitable fit for Tyler Boyd due to his advancing age and the city providing a less demanding media environment compared to other cities like New York. Additionally, Boyd's experience and potential fit within the Steelers' offensive needs, especially at the slot receiver position, make Pittsburgh a logical step for him.
- The text does not provide any concrete information or updates on Tyler Boyd's negotiations with the Pittsburgh Steelers. It focuses more on the speculation and potential reasons why Boyd signing with the Steelers could make sense. The lack of specific details about negotiations suggests that any potential talks between Boyd and the team are not public knowledge or have not been confirmed. This speculation is based on factors like Boyd's ties to Pittsburgh and t ...
Counterarguments
- While Tyler Boyd's connections to Pittsburgh are strong, this does not necessarily influence professional decisions, as NFL players often prioritize contracts, team competitiveness, and personal career goals over hometown affiliations.
- Speculation about Boyd signing with the Steelers may be unfounded or premature without concrete evidence or discussions from either party.
- The departure of Deontay Johnson could lead the Steelers to explore a variety of options at receiver, not limited to Tyler Boyd, including drafting a rookie or signing a different free agent.
- The narrative of Boyd returning to Pittsburgh to finish his NFL career, while appealing, may not align with the team's long-term strategic planning or Boyd's personal aspirations if better opportunities arise elsewhere.
- Pittsburgh's suitability for Boyd, particularly at the slot receiver position, could be contested if the team's offensive scheme or coaching staff changes, affecting how they utilize slot receivers.
- The idea that Pittsburgh provides a less demanding media environment could be subjective and vary based on individual experiences and perspectives.
- The notion that Boyd's move to the Steelers is a logical step for the team could be challenged if the Steelers have different priorities or salary cap considerations that make the signing impractical.
- The sentiment that Boyd's transition to the Steelers wo ...
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