The Cincinnati Bengals set a new tone with the team’s first 53-man roster of the weekend on Saturday.
First, because it is abundantly clear they are just getting started.
That’s the biggest takeaway, so let’s run through that a few other items before the Bengals start making additional roster moves in the coming hours and days.
Not Done: Hard to imagine the Bengals keep 11 defensive linemen right now. They’ll probably look to the waiver wire or trade for upgrades at LB or CB. Upgrading on O’Shea Dugas as a backup tackle might take some priority, too. The 53 announcement Saturday is a league requirement, but the Bengals have some work to do.
Fear of Loss: The Bengals were worried about another team swiping QB Jake Dolegala, hence his making the roster.
The Return(s): It is now cemented that the team hopes they can get first-round pick Jonah Williams back around December to shore up the offensive line. They tossed him on the PUP list alongside Darqueze Dennard.
Practice Squad Depth: Good luck figuring out the practice squad. Every player waived Saturday besides Cody Core is eligible.
Depth Over Special Teams at WR: Josh Malone got the nod over Cody Core, likely due to speed and his positional role with A.J. Green hurt.
Upside and Production Over Status: The vibes keep changing for the Bengals. Both Renell Wren and Josh Tupou made it. A veteran like John Jerry and underperformer like Malik Jefferson, despite his draft slot, did not.
