Should The Bengals Bring Leon Hall Back?
By Emile Pierce
Leon Hall spent nine years with the Bengals. Offseason back surgery prevented his re-signing. Should Cincinnati give him another look?
The Cincinnati Bengals lost safety Reggie Nelson, during the free agency period. Bengals faithful were divided on the move and let their opinions be known. Sports talk airwaves were abuzz with the reasons why Nelson should’ve been brought back. Now, with training camp looming, the Bengals may be considering the re-signing of Leon Hall.
Many fans thought that Hall was playing the numbers game. With many athletes and their agents, it’s usually about the cash. The situation was totally different, in Hall’s case. The 31-year-old was scheduled for back surgery. Per Pro Football Talk, he should be ready for the season. The dilemma? Should the Bengals consider bringing him back?
The Hall haters were on his case, last season. The fact that he seemed to be losing more than a step was the constant cry. Hall still has some nice tread left on the wheels. But, is that enough to warrant another stint with the Bengals?
Bengals brass decided to put their faith (and money) in the youngsters. George Iloka and Shawn Williams will be patrolling the middle of the field. Hall has spent his entire nine-year career with the Bengals. Fans have had both a love and hate affair with his coverage abilities. Now that the information about back surgery has come to the forefront, some fans are recanting their ill feelings towards Hall.
One possible destination could be the Miami Dolphins. The Phins were interested, earlier in the offseason. The Dolphins are loaded with young talent that could use the presence of a wily veteran. The added incentive of defensive coordinator Vance Joseph could sweeten the deal. Joseph was the defensive backs coach, while with the Bengals.
If Hall isn’t able to prove himself during training camp, he would still be a valuable asset to Cincinnati. He could be used to teach the intricacies of the position. Williams and Iloka should be able to hold things down. Ideally, (please don’t tell me to wash my mouth out with soap) if something happens, Hall can be an instant solution as a backup. It’s essentially a win-win situation, for the Men in Stripes.
The Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons are also possible spots for Hall to resume his career. Wherever Hall signs, he may be asked to deliver his talents as a safety. If he works things out with Cincy, that could dampen his chances of starting. It all depends on how badly he wants to play. Sometimes, less is more, in the NFL.
Bengals fans will always remember Hall as a competitor. When he was healthy, he was one of the best. Should he come back? Time moves forward. But, the past helps us understand the future.