Cincinnati Bengals to Watch vs. the Colts

Aug 24, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Chris Lewis-Harris (37) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Chris Lewis-Harris

When the Bengals waived R.J. Stanford during the first round of cuts, the door was opened for Lewis-Harris to make the team.  CLH has been with the Bengals since 2012 and has been solid overall, albeit in limited action.  He’s bounced between the Bengals’ practice squad and their roster for a couple of years now, but is well acclimated with the system because of his two years in Cincinnati.  He’s managed to make some plays on special teams this preseason, but has an uphill battle ahead of him going into the team’s final preseason game.

The Bengals look to already have ten players in their assumed secondary and CLH would make eleven.  On CLH’s side is the Bengals tumultuous history with health in its secondary.  The Bengals have suffered many injuries in the secondary and if CLH can convince the coaches he can be a valuable asset on special teams, his stock may rise just enough to make the roster.  Because Lewis-Harris is fighting for a final roster spot, his battle is actually with players outside of the position (the players on this list).  The selection at the end of the day may simply be out of his hands because he isn’t fighting a cornerback for a position in the secondary, but rather players all over the team in trying to convince the coaches where they should carry and extra player.  Lewis-Harris must have a great game and, additionally, may need help from some underperforming teammates in order to make this team.