The Cincinnati Bengals continue to search for the best possible starting five along the offensive line while also securing a strong core depth chart.
Saturday proved that well enough with the handling of fourth-round rookie D’Ante Smith.
After getting thrown to the wolves at offensive tackle earlier in the week due to injuries, struggling one day and bouncing back the next, the Bengals threw Smith at guard for Saturday’s practice.
“I’m just thinking, ‘Let’s go play,’ Smith said, according to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com. “The big thing was getting the technique down. And it’s a lot faster in there.”
Besides one penalty, Smith was mostly up to task too. The last time he played guard was at the Senior Bowl, which is clearly something line coach Frank Pollack had in mind while making the move — after shifting Michael Jordan from left guard to right guard.
This is a temporary thing and Smith figures to make the roster either way. The way his body has bounced back after COVID protocols and his versatility should see him through and he’s got long-term starter potential.
But as far as interesting training camp developments go, this is pretty high up there, as it puts even more pressure on guys like Billy Price and Jordan for a limited number of roster spots.
