Cincinnati Bengals: Predicting Practice Squad

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DE: Dontay Moch (vs. Sam Montgomery)

Aug 8, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Jacquizz Rodgers (32) is spun around by a tackle by Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Dontay Moch (52) during the second quarter at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

I had to group these players together because I see the decision being interrupted by another team once cuts are made. The team will ultimately choose Moch, but it’s important to note both players when looking at the practice squad come September.

Dontay Moch is an athletic freak. After the Bengals drafted him in 2011, he struggled to stay healthy and produce during the regular season. Although Moch sat out the game against the Jets, he produced yet another preseason sack against the Chiefs, something he’s done quite often in previous seasons. Moch spent last year with the Cardinals after they claimed him following his release from the Bengals. He produced his first regular season sack while in Arizona, but more importantly spent the year healthy as his talent has never been in question.

Jul 26, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Sam Montgomery (70) during training camp at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Sam Montgomery was an extremely talented college defensive end while at LSU, but like Moch, was put into an outside linebacker role while in the NFL. While both were miscast as 3-4 outside linebackers, Montgomery has never even seen the field. He was dropped from the Texans after an incident supposedly involving marijuana, but more so because he was out of shape and hence got injured a couple of times. Montgomery has the talent to be in the NFL, but he has to prove he’s willing to work hard and improve or he’ll never make it.

I believe the Bengals will choose to retain Moch as he’s proven his ability more and has spent more time with the Bengals. He won’t make the final roster due to Robert Geathers presence, but will be the choice over Montgomery.

It’s worth noting that the Cardinals have lost DE Darnell Dockett for the year due to an ACL tear, this after they already lost ILB Daryl Washington for the year due to suspension. It’s very possible that if the Bengals move on from Moch, the Cardinals could offer him a contract once more as he already knows their system. In this case, the Bengals could then pick up Montgomery once more.