Cincinnati Bengals: Projecting rookie roles in 2021

Projecting Cincinnati Bengals Rookie Roles – Chris Evans (RB)

One of what many analysts consider to be a steal of the draft, Chris Evans has all the upside fans could hope for in a running back. Evans was on and off the team at Michigan but showed his traits during the Senior Bowl and wowed the scouts and coaches that were present.

While at Michigan, Evans ran for 1,795 yards and 15 touchdowns while also catching 49 passes for 479 yards and two touchdowns. The Bengals saw Evans as a replacement for Giovani Bernard who they released before the draft and this makes sense, as Evans excels out of the backfield as a receiver.

Evans will likely be third on the depth chart behind Joe Mixon and Samaje Perine but his role could increase as his rookie season progresses. His development as a pass blocker will be crucial to his overall development as a future role player on this team.

Projecting Cincinnati Bengals Rookie Roles – Wyatt Hubert (EDGE)

Wyatt Hubert fits the mold of the Bengals defensive line, which is to be versatile and relentless. Coming out of Kansas State, Hubert showed his efficiency rushing the passer at multiple spots on the defensive line. He continued to show his development during the Senior Bowl where he impressed the Bengals front office.

Hubert will be considered a fringe roster player but has a few things on his side — First, his ability to play special teams will be crucial. During his time at Kansas State, Hubert attended all special teams meetings, even after he had seniority and was not a part of special teams. Secondly, Hubert comes into a depleted defensive line in need of youth and versatility.

If Hubert can perform well during special teams drills and show enough talent on the defensive line as a rookie, he could be a depth piece with occasional appearances during games.

The Bengals have a big rookie draft class and they might not all play a role for the team this year, but if they do, these are the roles they’d have.