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Tyler Kroft deserves a bigger role in Bengals’ offense

By Serenity Bishop

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 18: Tyler Kroft #81 of the Cincinnati Bengals stiff arms Ryan Shazier #50 of the Pittsburgh Steelers after making a catch in the second quarter during the game at Heinz Field on September 18, 2016 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 18: Tyler Kroft #81 of the Cincinnati Bengals stiff arms Ryan Shazier #50 of the Pittsburgh Steelers after making a catch in the second quarter during the game at Heinz Field on September 18, 2016 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /
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With Tyler Eifert lost to the injury list, it has given multiple opportunities for other players like Tyler Kroft to step up and prove their worth. With Eifert sidelined for the rest of the season, Kroft has already made the most of his opportunity.

The season did not begin on the right note for the Cincinnati Bengals. The defense played well, but the offense has struggled at times. Since the changing of the offensive coordinator, the Bengals have become more efficient. And part of that success has come from the play of Tyler Kroft.

During the Battle of Ohio, Kroft practically doubled his career stats. The former Rutgers Scarlet Knight caught six passes for 68-yards and two touchdowns. His big performance made many fans think, “Do we really need Eifert if Kroft can play like this?”

Don’t get carried away guys. Kroft isn’t Eifert, but that’s ok. He’s reliable.  Kroft followed his breakout game with another solid performance against the Bills. The stat line doesn’t blow you away, but it’s how and when Kroft made his four catches for 38-yards that should have the Bengals coaching staff thinking that he deserves a bigger role in the offense.

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There’s a saying that really proves to be true in the NFL: the best ability is availability. Despite Eifert’s clear ability,  he hasn’t been on the field and the way Kroft has been performing, get him the ball. I’ll take Kroft over Eifert.

Eifert has gone down for another year after deciding to undergo season-ending back surgery. Honestly, at this point in his career, I don’t think anyone is really surprised. He’s like the Joel Embiid of the NFL. He has been constantly sidelined which should result in an interesting contract situation. This will probably end differently than Embiid’s situation played out.

Regardless, it time to actually give Kroft a chance in the passing game. Personally, Kroft is becoming one of my favorite players.

Next: Eifert’s Season in Jeopardy

After covering football for his former high school, Downingtown East, it’s clear to see that Tyler Kroft is just a throwback football player. He does what he’s asked to and he gets the job done.

Hopefully, Kroft will get more touches this season. And with Eifert out, he has the chance to.

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