Cincinnati Bengals: Top Five Training Camp Battles
Sep 14, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals offensive lineman Andrew Whitworth (77) during introductions before the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Paul Brown Stadium. Cincinnati defeated Atlanta 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
The Best of the Best
Andy Dalton has been one of the most protected quarterbacks in the league the past couple of years. This is because of the camaraderie amongst the offensive line. Andrew Whitworth, Clint Boling, Kevin Zeitler and Andre Smith have all played together for the past few years, but this may be their final year together.
In this year’s draft, the Bengals selected Cedric Obueghi and Jake Fisher in the first and second round respectively. They also grabbed (in my opinion) this year’s second best center as an undrafted free agent in Chris Jasperse from Marshall. All of this while they also possess 2014 draftee center Russell Bodine who started all of 2014, undrafted gem Trey Hopkins and veteran tackle Eric Winston.
There are many good players, but not enough spots. This means players such as Dan France, T.J. Johnson, Tanner Hawkinson, Matthew O’Donnell and Jake Smith could be fighting for their NFL future and likely a practice squad spot at best.
Despite the fact that most of the excitement should be at center and regarding the line’s reserve slots, the offensive line as a whole is a situation to watch come August.