Cincinnati Bengals Offseason Review

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays an image of Billy Price of Ohio State after he was picked #21 overall by the Cincinnati Bengals during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays an image of Billy Price of Ohio State after he was picked #21 overall by the Cincinnati Bengals during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /
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Marvin Lewis back for another year with the Cincinnati Bengals hoping a few offseason tweaks can get them back into the playoffs.

The Cincinnati Bengals identified and attacked their biggest issue this offseason. This was a team that suffered from some poor offensive line play which derailed their season. The passing game wasn’t nearly as effective and the ground attack disappeared.

They went out and traded for Cordy Glenn and then used their 1st round pick on Billy Price. Both players are expected to take on major roles immediately.

Price should lineup at center and stabilize the interior of the offensive line. Glenn is a top-notch left tackle when healthy. However, he has been out of the lineup a lot the past few years which is why he was made available via trade.

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The Bengals were in a situation where they needed to take a risk on Glenn. He has a chance to really help get this offense back on track.

Defensively, Cincinnati brought in some younger talent to provide depth. Sam Hubbard and Andrew Brown will be part of the defensive line rotation. Both players have the upside to be starters in the next year or two.

Preston Brown was signed as a free agent and is expected to be the team’s starting inside linebacker. However, rookie Malik Jefferson is a better fit in today’s NFL thanks to his speed and athleticism.

Jessie Bates III is a versatile defensive back who can fit at either safety or cornerback. He even has the skill set needed to work out of the slot.

Darius Phillips is another interesting addition who should provide immediate help as a return man. However, he also has big-time potential as a cornerback. Don’t be surprised if he works his way into the rotation.

Overall, the Bengals filled some key holes while also planning for the future. This was a very solid and underrated offseason for Cincinnati.