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Five Position Battles to Watch During Bengals Training Camp

By Rory Daniels

BALTIMORE, MD - NOVEMBER 18: Wide Receiver Auden Tate #19 of the Cincinnati Bengals catches a pass as he is tackled by cornerback Jimmy Smith #22 of the Baltimore Ravens in the first quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on November 18, 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD - NOVEMBER 18: Wide Receiver Auden Tate #19 of the Cincinnati Bengals catches a pass as he is tackled by cornerback Jimmy Smith #22 of the Baltimore Ravens in the first quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on November 18, 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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3. Sam Hubbard vs. Kerry Wynn

Carl Lawson’s return from an ACL injury should mean the starting defensive line for 2019 is fairly settled. The Bengals defense uses the nickel formation most commonly and in the pass-centric NFL, Lawson should see the most time opposite veteran Carlos Dunlap. However, the team will look to keep the unit fresh and potentially have a stronger run defender than Lawson in their 4-3 formation.

Sam Hubbard was impressive in his rookie season, helping to fill the void left by Lawson with six sacks. Ultimately, Hubbard should be aiming to be a long-term replacement for Dunlap. His range of pass rush moves means he remains in pole position to take the majority of snaps outside of the main four on the line.

Hubbard received an above average grade of 68.7 from Pro Football Focus (PFF) for his run defense and sets the edge well in that area. His sack tally was boosted by coming up against the Raiders Kolton Miller. He will need to develop a good arsenal of tools to overcome his average athletic ability.

Kerry Wynn follows new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo from the Giants and his experience will be valuable as the new staff install their philosophy. Wynn’s versatility is a major plus point. He lined up across the front four last season, contributing on over 35% of defensive snaps as well as a hefty amount on special teams.

Wynn isn’t a natural pass rusher and it is reflected in his PFF grade of 53.0 on passing downs. He makes up for it in the run game where his relentless effort often results in him working loose and locating the ball carrier as demonstrated below with a clip from NFL Game Pass  posted on my YouTube channel.

Verdict: Wynn adds depth and experience, but Hubbard possesses the greatest potential. As long as he continues to develop from his first year, Hubbard should see the most snaps outside of the starting front four on defense. Wynn will help to keep the rotation fresh. Still, Hubbard will be aiming to land a starting gig in future years.

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