Bengals: Joe Bachie bolsters depth at linebacker position

The Cincinnati Bengals claimed former Eagles linebacker Joe Bachie off waivers on Wednesday. While most people are probably asking “Who is that?”, the Bengals obviously saw something in him to bring him in for camp this summer.

It’s no secret that the Bengals could use an upgrade at the linebacker spot and while yes, Bachie provides depth there, he’s not a player to get pumped about. The former Michigan State product went undrafted in the 2020 NFL Draft and eventually landed with the Saints but didn’t make their 2020 roster. He did appear in some games for the Eagles last season though, so he has minor NFL experience.

Now, entering his second year, Bachie will compete to make the Bengals’ 53-man roster.

The Bengals added linebacker depth in the form of Joe Bachie.

There isn’t much to analyze when it comes to Bachie’s NFL stats. He appeared in four games last year for the Eagles and had two tackles in those four games. He’s 6’2″ and 235 pounds, so a bit undersized for the linebacker position, but if he makes the roster, he’d be a rotational guy.

As of now, the Bengals look to be content rolling with Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt as their two starting linebackers. Akeem Davis-Gaithers is also someone to keep an eye on but after a rough rookie campaign, he’ll have to prove himself in year two.

Stripe Hype’s own Glenn Adams discussed how the linebacker position battle was one of the most intriguing entering training camp and this was before Bachie was added to the bunch. Nothing could come of this signing, as Bachie could fail to make the 53-man roster but given how much the linebackers struggled a season ago, taking chances on players like these can’t hurt.

Who knows if Bachie will amount to anything in a Bengals uniform but the team is continuing to add depth to the linebacker position in the hopes of turning around what was one of the weaker areas on the team a season ago.