The Bengal’s will more than likely move on from Andy Dalton this off-season and draft Joe Burrow to be their next franchise quarterback. Still, the backup position to Burrow has not been decided.
After a promising pre-season, rookie signal-caller Ryan Finley had an abysmal three-game stretch when he was thrust into the starting lineup for evaluation. It’s not entirely his fault, as he was placed in an offensive scheme designed for Dalton and his quick release. So, there is still hope for the former NC State standout. However, the team should have no problem bringing in competition.
There’s also Jake Dolegala, who the coaching staff liked so much, they kept on the 53-man roster to avoid him being poached by another team. However, when Finley failed, the team didn’t turn to Dolegala. This suggests he wasn’t showing enough to even deserve a look on a lost season. Maybe the internal belief is he can develop, but like Finley, there’s no reason to suspect he’s earned the back-up spot.
The front could always sign a long time veteran but that will likely cost some significant cap space.
Perhaps St. Louis Battlehawk star Jordan Ta’amu could prove to be worthy competition to the previously mentioned players. After his collegiate career at Ole Miss, he was signed by the Texans.
After being cut, he found a home in the XFL where he’s completed an impressive 75% of his passes and earned a 105.9 quarterback ranking. Speaking to his athletic ability, he’s 5th in the entire league in rushing, cashing in on 5.2 yards per attempt. All of this should be enough to at least get an invite training camp and a chance to work with new quarterbacks coach Dan Pitcher.