Bengals listed as a potential landing spot for David DeCastro
After David DeCastro was released by the Steelers, Chris Roling of Bleacher Report came up with a list of teams who would be the best fit for him. The Cincinnati Bengals made the list.
Here is what Roling had to say:
"While the Bengals might not want to derail Carman’s development, DeCastro is an on-paper upgrade over the other two veterans. He’d also classify as insurance if Carman struggles (and the rookie could be the long-term option at right tackle, anyway).Given the need to put the best possible five in front of Burrow, the Bengals would likely be willing to pay up more than most, too."
At this point, the Bengals are looking at rookie Jackson Carman to man the right guard spot in 2021. Carman played left tackle at Clemson so the Bengals are asking a lot of him and there’s no doubt that DeCastro would be an upgrade at the position.
That being said, DeCastro was released for a reason and it’s because of injuries. Signing him would be a risky move but if he’s healthy and good to go, he’d definitely add experience to this group.
The Bengals are considered a good fit for David DeCastro.
The reason I’m not as big on signing DeCastro as a lot of people are is that he’s contemplated retirement, which Roling notes in the article. He’s also heading a third surgery on his ankle and who knows if that’ll go well or not.
If DeCastro is healthy and wants to continue playing, then sure, the Bengals should consider bringing him in. He’d be an upgrade at right guard and maybe in that situation, Carman can play left guard instead so that he’s still getting some work in as a rookie.
I’m all for the Bengals signing an offensive lineman and DeCastro has put together an impressive career. He’s made six Pro Bowls and been named an All-Pro twice but the recent injuries definitely make signing him a risky move, to say the least, because you aren’t sure what version of him you’re getting.
It makes sense that DeCastro is being linked to Cincinnati given their need at the position. Will they go out and get a deal done for him?