Who Dey Light: Free agency wrap
In this episode of The Growler podcast, the focus is on the Cincinnati Bengals' free agency moves and upcoming NFL draft. The hosts analyze how the Bengals improved their safety and running back positions through signings like Geno Stone and Zach Moss. They also discuss the team's strategy for navigating key departures like Germaine Pratt and Joe Mixon.
The episode previews potential Bengals draft targets, suggesting the team will likely use their first-round pick on an offensive lineman and target positions like wide receiver and defensive tackle on day two. Overall, the podcast offers insights into the Bengals' offseason adjustments and their draft needs.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Mar 15, 2024 episode of the The Growler
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1-Page Summary
Bengals Free Agency Additions and Subtractions
Safety and Running Back Improvements
According to Paul Dehner Jr., the Bengals have improved their safety and running back positions through smart free agent moves. Signings like Geno Stone and Zach Moss are seen as great fits, with Moss joining at a reasonable price. Re-signing captain Von Bell preserves leadership and depth while allowing tactical versatility with three-safety sets.
Navigating Key Losses
While losing locker room leaders Reeder and Mixon, the Bengals have figures like Logan Wilson, Bell, Burrow, Hubbard, and Hilton who can step up. Burrow, despite not being vocal, leads by example and winning focus.
NFL Draft Preview
Expected Focus Areas
The Bengals aim to improve their offensive line, likely using their first-round pick on a right tackle. They'll also target a speedy wide receiver on day two and a defensive tackle to shore up run defense struggles.
Key Draft Needs
Per Dehner Jr., offensive line talent aligns well with the first round. Receiver options are promising on day two, when the Bengals could also land a defensive tackle to bolster run defense. A wildcard tight end or cornerback pick is possible as well.
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Additional Materials
Clarifications
- In the context of the NFL draft, the statement "offensive line talent aligns well with the first round" means that there are typically high-quality offensive linemen available in the first round of the draft. Teams often prioritize selecting top offensive line prospects early in the draft due to their importance in protecting the quarterback and establishing the run game. This strategy reflects the value placed on securing skilled offensive linemen to strengthen the team's overall performance and success on the field.
- A "wildcard pick" in the context of the NFL draft typically refers to a selection that is unexpected or unconventional. Teams may use a wildcard pick to surprise other teams or address a less obvious need. It can add an element of unpredictability to the draft strategy.
Counterarguments
- While Geno Stone and Zach Moss may be seen as great fits, their actual performance with the Bengals will be the true test of their fit with the team.
- Moss joining at a reasonable price is positive, but his contribution to the team's success will depend on his ability to adapt to the Bengals' offensive scheme and stay healthy.
- Re-signing Von Bell does preserve leadership and depth, but it's not guaranteed that this will translate into improved performance on the field.
- Tactical versatility with three-safety sets could be beneficial, but it also requires the rest of the defense to adapt and perform consistently within this scheme.
- The Bengals have other players who can step up in leadership roles, but the chemistry and dynamic may change with the loss of Reeder and Mixon, which could have unforeseen consequences.
- Joe Burrow's leadership style is effective, but vocal leadership can also be important in certain situations, and the Bengals may miss that aspect with the departure of vocal leaders.
- Aiming to improve the offensive line in the draft is a clear goal, but drafting the right talent is challenging, and rookies may take time to develop.
- Using a first-round pick on a right tackle assumes that the best player available at that position will be a right tackle, which may not be the case.
- Targeting a speedy wide receiver on day two assumes that the draft class will have the depth at that position to meet the Bengals' needs.
- Drafting a defensive tackle to address run defense struggles is a strategy, but it also depends on the development of that player and the overall defensive scheme.
- While offensive line talent may align well with the Bengals' first-round pick, the draft is unpredictable, and the best available player may not be an offensive lineman.
- Receiver options on day two may be promising, but the success of those picks will depend on how well they fit into the Bengals' offensive system and their ability to transition to the NFL.
- Drafting a wildcard tight end or cornerback could be seen as a gamble if it doesn't address more pressing needs on the team.
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Bengals Free Agency Additions and Subtractions
The Cincinnati Bengals have made significant moves in the free agency market, and their strategic player signings and losses are reshaping the team's dynamics.
Safety and Running Back Improvements
Paul Dehner Jr. believes the Bengals have improved at safety and at running back, particularly noting the potential to be even better with an upcoming draft pick. The team's decision to meet with and sign Geno Stone and Zach Moss has been applauded as great fits, making sense for the team's direction. Stone, brought in as a free agent, and Moss, who joined the team at a cost-effective price, are considered better fits for what the Bengals want to achieve.
The re-signing of team captain and enforcer, Von Bell, is a significant move due to his leadership and the tangible impact he has on gameplay. Despite not being signed at a starter's salary, Bell’s extensive experience is valued, and he is seen as a third safety and a strategic reserve in case newcomers struggle or in case of injuries. His presence also allows for tactical versatility, such as the usage of three-safety sets, enhancing Bengal's defensive play.
Losing Leaders Like Reader and Mixon
The team is also navigating the loss of team leaders like Reeder and Mixon. These two players were seen as substantial locker room presences and were integral in setting the team culture. Discussions include speculations on who will step up in the leadership void, with Logan Wilson, Von Bell, and Joe Burrow mentioned as potential candidates. Established figures like Sam Hubbard and Mike Hilton continue to be notable team leaders, with Ted Karras taking part in setting the leadership tone.
Furthermore, while Joe Burrow may not be a vocal 'rah-rah' leader, his example-driven leadership and focus on winning are influencing the team culture. With the return of leaders like Bell, and strong figures like Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase setting t ...
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Bengals Free Agency Additions and Subtractions
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Geno Stone and Zach Moss are new players signed by the Cincinnati Bengals to improve the safety and running back positions, respectively.
- Von Bell is a team captain known for his leadership and experience, playing a significant role in the Bengals' defense.
- Reader and Mixon are former players who were considered leaders on the team but are no longer with the Bengals.
- Logan Wilson, Sam Hubbard, Mike Hilton, Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Ted Karras are current players on the Bengals roster who are seen as potential leaders or key figures in the team's dynamics.
- The "odds and ends" phase of team building typically refers to the final stages of roster construction, where teams focus on filling smaller gaps or adding depth rather than making major acquisitions. It signifies that the team is addressing remaining needs and fine-tuning the roster before the season begins. This phase often involves making smaller signings or trades to complement the core roster that has already been established. Teams in this phase are usually refining their lineup rather than making sweeping changes.
- The Cincinnati Bengals have been active in the offseason, making strategic player signings and losses to reshape the team. They have focused on improving positions like safety, running back, and defensive back through signings like Geno Stone and Zach Moss. The team's draft strategies are aimed at comple ...
Counterarguments
- While Geno Stone and Zach Moss may be good fits for the Bengals, it's possible that they may not live up to expectations or fill the roles left by departing players as effectively as anticipated.
- Re-signing Von Bell is important, but relying on a single player for leadership and impact can be risky, especially if that player faces injury or a decline in performance.
- The loss of leaders like Reader and Mixon might have a more significant impact than anticipated, and it could take time for new leaders to emerge and for the team culture to adjust.
- While Joe Burrow's example-driven leadership is influential, the team might benefit from more vocal leadership to motivate players and maintain morale during challenging times.
- Being in the "odds and ends" phase of team building suggests that the Bengals may still have gaps to fill, and the success of their strategy will depend on how well the draft and any additional signings address those needs.
- Improv ...
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NFL Draft Preview
The hosts delve into the Cincinnati Bengals' strategy for the upcoming NFL Draft, discussing expectations and the key selections needed to bolster the team's lineup.
Expected Focus on OL, WR, DT
The Bengals are expected to focus on strengthening their offensive line (OL), specifically aiming to solidify the right tackle position with a first-round draft pick. They intend to create lasting improvement through continuity and strategic acquisitions. There’s also mention of the team picking a wide receiver (WR). They are likely to select one who can add speed to the team. This is particularly expected on the second day of the draft, where they can also contribute immediately. Concerning the defensive tackle (DT) position, there’s a notable concern, as the team previously struggled with run defense and doesn’t seem to be significantly better off despite new player additions.
Key Draft Selections Needed
Paul Dehner Jr. aligns the Bengals' needs with the strengths of the draft. He points out that good players for the offensive line are expected to be available on day one. Meanwhile, the second day looks promising for selecting a receiver.
The crucial need for the Bengals to use their first-round selection on a right tackle is reinforced as a way to enhance the offensive line. With an additional compensatory pick at the end of round three, the likelihood of select ...
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NFL Draft Preview
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Compensatory picks in the NFL Draft are additional draft picks awarded to teams based on a formula that considers free agents gained and lost in the previous year. These picks are awarded at the ends of rounds 3-7, providing teams with extra opportunities to select players. Compensatory picks cannot be traded, adding value to teams ...
Counterarguments
- While focusing on the offensive line is a common strategy, it's possible that the best player available at the Bengals' draft position may not be an offensive lineman, which could lead them to select a different position based on talent over need.
- Continuity and strategic acquisitions are important, but they must also be balanced with the need for adaptability and the ability to respond to the dynamic nature of the NFL, where injuries and unexpected player developments can occur.
- Drafting a wide receiver for speed on the second day makes sense, but the Bengals might also need to consider the depth and quality of their receiving corps and whether other positions might be more pressing.
- Concerns about the defensive tackle position are valid, but the Bengals may have internal development plans or free agency strategies that could address the run defense issues without relying heavily on the draft.
- The availability of good offensive line players on day one is not guaranteed, and the Bengals may need to have a flexible draft strategy in case the expected players are taken earlier by other teams.
- While the second day looks promising for selecting a receiver, the Bengals should be cautious not to reach for a player based on need if the value isn't there, as this could lead to missed opportunities to draft better talent at other positions.
- Using a first-round selection on a right tackle could enhance the offensive line, but if a highly talented player at another position unexpectedly falls to the Bengals, they might consider deviating from their planned strategy.
- Having an additional compensatory pick is beneficial, but it doesn't necessarily mean the Bengals will or should use it ...
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