Cincinnati Bengals 2017 third round pick Jordan Willis saw limited and inconsistent snaps last year. Could he become a starter in 2018?
The Cincinnati Bengals drafted defensive end Jordan Willis out of Kansas State in 2017. The third-round pick saw few and inconsistent snaps, however, but that could change this season. Coaches have said that Willis should have seen more time on the field last year including new defensive coordinator Teryl Austin.
Willis was a raw talent coming into the NFL with a very high ceiling for the Bengals. Both Willis and teammate Carl Lawson will see more time in 2018 in Austin’s defense which will move around playmakers. Lawson will see more linebacker roles in base packages which would give Willis time at defensive end on early downs.
During his little time on the field in 2017, Willis showed abilities to make an impact against the rushing game. As the Bengals ranked one of the worst against the run last season, it would be significantly beneficial to start Willis opposite of defensive end, Carlos Dunlap. I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw defensive end Michael Johnson kick inside on pass rushing downs and allowing Willis more time on the edge.
Austin’s defense will bring more looks and schemes to a Cincinnati defense that has stayed the same for the last decade. Moving players around will help the defense stay unpredictable and keep offenses guessing on what they will do. Willis has had a full offseason to work on his game and working with some of the best defensive linemen last year, I see no reason why he wouldn’t get significant playing time in 2018.
Cincinnati also has newly acquired third-round pick Sam Hubbard who will likely see a limited role in his rookie season. The Bengals have the opportunity and depth to rotate players along the defensive line to stay fresh, but Willis should start on snaps that Lawson is playing defensive end. Standing at 6’4″ and 255 pounds, Willis showed great athleticism at the combine with his 4.53 40-yard dash and 6.85 three-cone drills.
Next: Bengals training camp battles on offense
Willis is a player I have on my list of likely breakout players for Cincinnati in 2018. If he has improved in the offseason in his hand fighting skills and ability to get around the edge, Willis could be a dangerous edge rusher for the Bengals this year. It will be interesting to see him play in the preseason and see what he has learned so far.