Is Giovani Bernard Expendable?

Giovani Bernard is a 27 year old five year veteran that could be a victim of the numbers game as the season draws nearer.

The regular season is close enough that those of us who think we know something about the NFL are making 53 man roster projections in our heads. Running back is an intriguing room for the Bengals.

With his production last year and the team’s offseason moves, Joe Mixon is not only the centerpiece of the ground game, but he is being positioned as the centerpiece of the whole offense. He should be used and used a lot, but the team still needs a change of pace back to make an effort to keep Mixon somewhat fresh.

Giovani Bernard is a solid all purpose back who has filled the change of pace role backing up several position mates throughout his entire career. The former Tar Heel has also been the feature back on occasion.

However, things appear murky as far as his future in Cincinnati. He is entering the final year of his deal. Also, the Bengals drafted two running backs. If you are Bernard, the addition of Trayveon Williams in particular has to be a little worrisome. He is about the same size as Bernard and is also a similar pass catching threat out of the backfield. You can view the similarities below via the Highlight Creator YouTube channel.

If Williams can pick up protecting the quarterback in camp and the preseason, he could see the field right away. Both Williams and fellow rookie back Rodney Anderson are sixth round picks. Thus, getting cut, special teams, and the practice squad are also realistic possibilities for the duo.

However, getting younger and cheaper while not drastically hurting your team’s level of talent is the name of the game in the NFL. If the rookies look good in late July and August, the Bengals can do just that by cutting or trading Bernard.