StripeHype
FanSided

Bengals should stay away from Richie Incognito

By Travis Steffen

ORCHARD PARK, NY - SEPTEMBER 15: Richie Incognito #64 of the Buffalo Bills warms up before the game against the New York Jets at New Era Field on September 15, 2016 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY - SEPTEMBER 15: Richie Incognito #64 of the Buffalo Bills warms up before the game against the New York Jets at New Era Field on September 15, 2016 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

The Cincinnati Bengals still have question marks along the offensive line, but they should not sign former Buffalo Bills guard Richie Incognito.

The Cincinnati Bengals have some question marks on the right side of the offensive line both at guard and tackle, but they should not be interested in former Buffalo Bills guard Richie Incognito. Reports came out earlier this offseason that Incognito wanted to retire and the Bills moved him to their reserved/retired list. Since then, Incognito has expressed his desire to continue playing in the NFL which led to the Bills releasing him this week.

It’s been an exciting offseason between the two franchises, to say the least. Cincinnati traded back in the first-round of the draft in exchange for left tackle Cordy Glenn just before the free agency period opened. They also signed former Bills linebacker Preston Brown. The Bills have signed former Bengals center Russell Bodine and backup quarterback A.J. McCarron this offseason. It would not surprise me if they showed interest in yet another former Bills player.

Incognito has been one of the best guards in the league over recent years. He was named to Pro Football Focus’ First Quarter All-Pro Team in 2017. With his 80.5 grade last season from PFF, he was the 12th ranked guard in the NFL. Incognito should have no problem finding a one-year deal quickly in free agency.

Cincinnati currently has Christian Westerman, Alex Redmond, and Trey Hopkins competing for the right guard position. Adding Incognito would absolutely give fans even more reason to be excited about their offensive line work this offseason but is it a good idea for the organization? All three guards currently on the roster have shown flashes of potential in their little opportunities during their young careers. Working with new offensive line coach Frank Pollack could be the change one or more of them need to take the next step forward in their game.

Next: Who will be the Bengals most improved player in 2018?

Incognito would look good on paper starting with Cordy Glenn, Clint Boling, Billy Price, and Jake Fisher. However, the 35-year-old veteran would be a one year option. Instead, I think the Bengals need to focus on developing the talent they already have. Even without Incognito, Cincinnati’s offensive line should be much improved from last season. Focus on the long-term instead of a one-year deal on a 35-year-old veteran that could or could not work out.

Home/Bengals News