Every NFL preseason presents a surprise on the roster. For the Cincinnati Bengals, a few candidates come to mind. Fortunately for Zac Taylor and Andy Dalton, that surprise came in the absence of A.J. Green.
The “down the depth chart” discovery of quality pass-catchers will help Taylor and Dalton find a silver lining this preseason. While the offensive line has disappointed and may yet cause significant heartburn for Bengals fans, players like Auden Tate and the late push by Damion Willis are reasons to smile.
Zac Taylor confirmed undrafted receiver Damion Willis will not play Thursday because he’s solidified his spot on the 53 man roster. #Bengals
— Marisa Contipelli (@BengalsMarisa) August 25, 2019
The easy assumption has been that no Green would be disastrous for Cincinnati. It still may be. But Tate and Willis give Dalton some opportunities that seemed lost with Green out of the lineup.
This isn’t to say Green being out is now a non-issue. It’s still a huge issue as he can change a game quickly. But an injury isn’t a death sentence for a Bengals team in transition. It’s also a sign that talent isn’t all that scarce in Cincinnati.
2019 will be a season of discovery. As Taylor builds the Bengals in his image, depth at the skill positions like wide receiver is key. It can’t be Green and no one else. Bengals fans can be excited about what the injury to Green exposed-depth to be excited about.