Who Dey Notes: Bengals’ AJ McCarron Rumors, Eifert Better
By Emile Pierce
The rumors around Cincinnati Bengals’ AJ McCarron are quieting down. Tyler Eifert is on the road to recovery and should be ready when it counts.
It just wouldn’t be a true offseason, if there were no talks of trades. Good trades, awful deals, insane rumors. It’s all part of the tapestry (heard that in Indiana Jones) that makes up the NFL. That being said, here’s your latest AJ McCarron fix. Seems like the Cleveland Browns are nixing anything that resembles a trade for the Bengals’ backup quarterback.
Since the 2016 season ended, there have been widespread rumors about possible landing spots for McCarron. The most logical assumption would be a reunion with Hue Jackson on the shores of Lake Erie. But, Executive Vice President of Football Operations, Sashi Brown is throwing major shade on a possible deal with the Bengals. Per cleveland.com, Brown nixed any trade possibilities during draft weekend. But, he left the field open for a possible move before that time.
"“Could we in theory? Yes. But, are we planning on it or is that the plan? No.”"
McCarron has been the subject of trade talks since the Bengals’ exit interviews. Rumors have tied him to not only the Browns but any other franchise that has the need for a QB with starter potential. After Andy Dalton broke his thumb in a Week 14 battle with the Steelers, McCarron has become the wonder boy of the AFC North. Marvin Lewis recently shot down trade rumors by saying McCarron is a “valuable part of our team.”
"“No one has asked to trade him. We’re not going to go out and seek a trade for AJ McCarron. He’s a valuable member of the team. We’ve said that how many times?”"
It’s the NFL. Anything is possible.
Gronk 2.0 Ready?
Training camp is around the corner. The draft is creeping up and pigskin fever is getting intense. But, Tyler Eifert is unsure of his status to start the year. Tyler ended the 2016 campaign with a back injury that eventually required surgery. His recovery has been gradual. But, now there are concerns over his ability to participate in offseason activities. Per ESPN, Eifert discussed how he’s progressing. He feels fine but has other issues to fight through.
"“I’ve still lost a lot of strength with the nerve issues and all of that stuff. Just working through some of that. Once I get my strength back I’ll be fine. I’ve worked through a back issue before and you just find ways to get the same benefits from different lifts or different ways to work out. You just have to work around it, which is fine. I’ve done that before.”"
Next: Pick O.J. Howard? Makes Sense
Bengals fans are hoping the Pro Bowl tight end will be able to resume his red zone antics. Eifert was a major force for Cincinnati’s offense, during the 2015 season. Having him back on the field will once again cause much-needed matchup problems for opposing defenses. The mini-camps set for June may be a push. But, Eifert should be ready when it counts.
"“If I’m healthy and I can do it, I’ll do it, but it doesn’t count for anything,” he explained. “You’re here with the guys and you’re getting better, but there’s no reason to do something if you’re not all the way healthy.”"
Hopefully, Dalton’s big target will be ready to go as soon as possible.