next season...

017bengal — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 15:37:48 -0000

Once again another season ends and the talk begins about how this team could be a possible contender next season. I'm no expert by any means, but am optimistic. With a defense that had season ending injuries at key positions(DE,LB,CB,S),they still finished 12th. The return and health of these players should improve this unit even further. Heavens forbid,should Mike Brown make a real attempt at bringing in a defensive stud in free agency, this could be a top 5 defense. Albert Haynesworth is available but picking him up would require living in an alternate reality. Julius Peppers is the guy they should at least make an attempt to try to aquire.I realize that that would be alot of money to invest in the DE position but lets face it,there was absolutely no pass rush in 08.If anything this would provide depth and allow them to use the first several picks on positions of glaring need such as offensive line.I'm not sold on Cedric Benson,nor am I impressed with Beanie Wells(please don't draft him,hes not durable).They do need depth and improvement at running back,attracting one in free agency is the way to go but will be a big task.Westbrook would be great,even though hes a little older,he still has alot in the tank,is durable and would be a leader.That will never happen.A possible trade may be a good idea,what about Chad Ocho Headcase to the Chiefs for Larry the headcase Johnson?Niether wishes to be with their teams,they need recievers,the Bengals need running backs.As far as the number one pick,they should take the best available offensive lineman.If they feel they can get one in round 2 then they should pick Crabbtree.Chris Henry and Crabbtree would be a good start at rebuilding the recieving core.We'll have to just wait and see.

SB Nation User Blog: 017bengal

next season...