Robert Geathers: Under-Appreciated and Unsung

Aug 8, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Robert Geathers (91) shown on the sidelines against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome. The Bengals defeated the Falcons 34-10. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Robert Geathers isn’t the first player that comes to mind when talking about the Cincinnati Bengals. Or the second. Or third. He’s not flashy. He’s not brash. He’s doesn’t crave attention. He’s just a football player, but he’s one that’s more important than many fans realize.

Geathers was another one of those mid-round picks that found success in Cincinnati. A fourth rounder in 2004, he was brought in with the hope that he could add some pass rushing ability to the defensive end rotation on a defense that registered a mere 30 sacks in 2003. While he never became a big-time sack artist, having broken the 10 sack barrier only once, he did find a home on the Bengals defense along the way.

Ten seasons is a long time in NFL circles. Players tend to either fall out of the league or move on to new teams. Geathers is one of a rare breed, entering season number eleven as a Bengal, and he just keeps doing what he does best, and that’s a little of everything. He’s a terrific player against the run. A contrast to the pass-rushing prowess of line-mates Carlos Dunlap and Geno Atkins, Geathers anchors the left defensive end spot, holding fort against would-be ball carriers. He’s a smart player who knows how to use his body to work his way through blocks. He also provides a great deal of leadership to a team loaded with youth, setting an example of consistency and effort. So while he’s only averaging about three sacks per season, he’s more than held up his end of the deal.

Geathers is signed through the 2015 season. He’s 30 and coming off of a season where he missed nearly every game. Expectations from fans will be low. Coaches, though, know what he adds to the team. They need him, and he’ll be ready, and once the season starts, he’ll be out there doing the little things, and he’ll be doing them under the radar, where he always operates.