Who Dey Notes: Bengals’ Carlos Dunlap, Burkhead Is A Patriot
By Emile Pierce
The Bengals’ romp through free agency continues as they lose Rex Burkhead. Carlos Dunlap shows his frustration with the plan.
The free agency virus has claimed another Bengals player. Rex Burkhead is off to the fairytale land of New England. Per ESPN, the Patriots and Burkhead agreed to terms on Tuesday. With Rex leaving to play under Bill Belichick and Tom Brady, the number of Bengals free agent losses stands at a whopping five. Andrew Whitworth, Kevin Zeitler, Domata Peko and Margus Hunt have also been snatched away from the shores of Cincinnati.
After Cincinnati relinquished its two linemen, hopes were high that Burkhead could be retained. The quick and agile running back spent most of his four years on special teams. Last season, he had a breakout campaign when both Jeremy Hill and Giovani Bernard suffered injuries. In his final game with the Bengals, Burkhead rushed for 119 yards on 27 carries against the Baltimore Ravens.
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Like so many times before, the Bengals are letting a quality player ease out of Paul Brown Stadium. The Hoodie and the Patriots don’t take days off. They saw the talent and got their man. With running back Brandon Bolden waiting patiently in free agency, Burkhead could possibly be a replacement.
Though many fans were skeptical of his limited body of work, Burkhead proved to be a back with vision and speed. The Bengals’ offensive line was much maligned for the majority of the 2016 season. But, Burkhead was able to churn out 344 yards and averaged 4.6 yards behind the same O-Line.
Just want to thank the Bengals org. for everything the past 4 years. All class. Excited for the opportunity to compete in New England.
— Rex Burkhead (@RBrex34) March 14, 2017
They let another one get away…again.
Dunlap Is Like…What The?
Not only are fans and curiosity seekers scratching their heads over the Bengals moves, players are wondering what’s going on.
Carlos Dunlap tweeted his confusion, after the recent turn of events with Rex Burkhead.
I don't see the plan but guess that's not my role to either.
— Carlos Dunlap (@Carlos_Dunlap) March 14, 2017
Welcome to the never-ending frustration of Cincinnati fans, Carlos. There are snacks and sodas on the table next to the well-worn sofa.
Evidently, there’s some divine plan that the football gods are whispering to Marvin Lewis and Mike Brown. Hopefully, the 2017 version of the Cincinnati Bengals will be more competitive and entertaining than the dumpster fire that’s burning out of control.