Bengals: Larry Ogunjobi is on PUP, but don’t hit the panic button yet

When the news came down that one of the Cincinnati Bengals‘ biggest offseason additions, Larry Ogunjobi was placed on the PUP list, panic set in. However, when one door closes, another one opens up. Or something like that.

Yes, this is not good news.

The Bengals are counting on Ogunjobi to fill the role left vacant by Geno Atkins’ departure. Another new addition, Rookie Cam Sample is more than likely being counted on as well to play all over the defense, including at defensive tackle, aka, the three-technique. However, he is dealing with a hamstring injury and is currently on the Active / Non-Football Injury list. the team should take their time with the young, versatile player.

But not all is lost.

First, Zac Taylor mentioned that this was a hamstring injury and that it doesn’t appear to be a long-term thing. As Bengals fans, we have become accustomed to expecting the worst though, so it’s hard to really buy into this narrative.

Second, there are a group of defensive linemen on the roster who are waiting for their opportunity to shine; The first of whom is Renell Wren. He was recently also on the PUP list but has been cleared to start training camp.

Since being drafted in the fourth round of the 2019 draft, Wren has unfortunately dealt with his share of injuries. Now, if healthy, he has a chance to show that he not only should make the final 53 but also contribute and make an impact if Ogunjobi misses some time.

More than likely, if Ogunjobi is going to miss time, the guy who is more than likely to line up next to D.J. Reader at the three-technique is veteran Mike Daniels with Wren backing him up. After that, however, the experience and production fall off significantly with Kahlil McKenzie and Freedom Akinmoladun behind Daniels. Maybe one of those guys can break out in the preseason.

If none of this tickles the Bengals’ fancy, they can always dip into free agency. There remain a few defensive tackle, three-technique types available. The most notable of which is Geno Atkins. Right now, according to Over the Cap, the Bengals still have 17 million dollars in cap space.

The team could also choose to wait for other teams to make cuts to their roster and claim a player that they like. There is also the possibility of a trade. Again, this all depends on the severity of Ogunjobi’s injury.

Once the regular season starts, count on Sam Hubbard also moving inside on passing situations.

So there are options. No need to hit the panic button… yet.