Stripe Hype Podcast: Bengals OTA’s and defense

The Cincinnati Bengals are in the middle of their second week of OTA workouts this week. What we’ve heard from there and defensive discussions.

The Cincinnati Bengals are hosting their second week of OTA workouts this week as the team begins work on the new season. Defensive end Carlos Dunlap continues to hold out in search for a new contract entering the final season of his current one. Cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick was not in attendance on Tuesday due to a funeral he went to in Alabama but is back with the team.

There have been plenty of stories coming out of OTA’s even though the team has restricted reporters on what information they can share. Second-year receiver John Ross has been receiving a significant amount of praise from coaches and teammates as he goes through his first OTA workouts. Remember, Ross was not able to participate in last seasons OTA workouts.

Another young player that was earning some highlights last week was fifth-round pick cornerback Darius Phillips. As one of our favorite day three picks by the Bengals, Phillips could find himself developing into a starting role in the near future if the team cannot retain Darqueze Dennard next season. He brings a ballhawk mentality which is something new defensive coordinator Teryl Austin has been searching for this offseason.

Related Story: Stripe Hype Podcast: Top offensive weapons in 2018

We discuss what we believe are the areas of biggest question marks and strengths on each side of the ball. Will Geno Atkins finally have someone next to him on the inside that can help shut down the run? Will Nick Vigil step up and become a more complete linebacker this season opposite of Vontaze Burfict? There is plenty to talk about so check out this episode of the Stripe Hype Podcast!