Bengals Roster: Realistic expectations for Alex Cappa in 2022

This will be Alex Cappa’s first year on the Cincinnati Bengals roster. What should fans expect from the newcomer? 

The first free-agent signing of the offseason was Alex Cappa landing with the Cincinnati Bengals, happening minutes into the legal tampering period. This was a huge move for the stripes, who had to revamp their offensive line, especially with how badly the Super Bowl went for that particular unit.

Cappa was the first new name to join the o-line and immediately fans knew what role he’d be fitting into. He’s going to be the new starting right guard for the new-look offensive line.

Right guard has been a revolving door for Cincinnati and last year was proof of that. The eventual reigning AFC champions had three different players try and hold down the fort at right guard and none were exactly promising as to what the future could hold there.

Bengals Roster: What should fans expect from Alex Cappa in 2022?

The Bengals made a lot of improvements to their offensive line and naturally, it’s going to take some time for that unit to gel. Cappa was outstanding for the Buccaneers last year, posting a 73.4 PFF grade and garnering just one penalty during that time.

Cappa has been dealing with a core muscle injury this offseason but the hope is that he’ll be back in time for the regular season.

As mentioned above, it’ll probably take a few weeks, maybe even a month or longer, for the new Bengals o-line to get used to playing together but when things do click, this unit should be one of the best in the league. Cappa was a huge get for the stripes and he’s going to play a pivotal role in the new-look o-line protecting Joe Burrow throughout the year.

Realistic expectations for Cappa are that he starts every single game (hopefully) and can be a consistent pass-protector and run-blocker for his new team. He turned down the opportunity to return to Tampa Bay and continue blocking for Tom Brady to come to Cincinnati and that’s a huge deal. Let’s hope he lives up to the hype.