The Cincinnati Bengals have released running back Giovani Bernard. This will come as a disappointment to many fans, but not a shock. Bernard was a fan favorite. He was a reliable and valuable player because of his ability to run, pass catch and pick up blitzes.
Even before the announcement that Bernard was being released, there was a feeling that the team might lean towards a cheaper option at the RB position. With the departure of Bernard, there is a bit of a void in the RB room.
It’s probably not a coincidence that this news and reports of the team asking him to take a pay cut come just weeks before the NFL Draft. While we should not expect the Bengals to select a RB in the first round, it shouldn’t be a surprise that they may target the position later on in the draft.
But the draft is not the only route the Bengals could take. Here are a few options for Cincinnati to find someone who could fill Bernard’s role this season. Too soon?
Gio Bernard asked for his release and the #Bengals granted it, source says. The team had asked him to take a pay cut two weeks into free agency, which hurt his chances of landing elsewhere. But he's expected to find a new gig soon.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) April 7, 2021
A. In house option:
Trayveon Williams. Just physically speaking, Williams reminds you a lot of Bernard when he is on the field. He is an explosive runner who runs very hard. He also has the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.
He gave everyone a glimpse of what he could do towards the end of the season. Perhaps, the organization saw enough from him to feel comfortable with this move. If the Bengals chose not to invest in a pick in the upcoming draft, Williams would be the obvious choice to replace Bernard.