CINCINNATI BENGALS (13-8, Super Bowl runner-up)
New faces: RT La’el Collins, RG Alex Cappa, C Ted Karras, TE Hayden Hurst, TE Nick Eubanks, S Daxton Hill, CB Cam Taylor-Britt.
Key losses: TE C.J. Uzomah, DT Larry Ogunjobi, OL Riley Reiff, CB Trae Waynes, CB Darius Phillips.
Strengths: With the Bengals signing three new offensive linemen, third-year quarterback Joe Burrow ought to spend extra time upright and be much more profitable. He missed the primary three weeks of coaching camp after having an appendectomy on July 26, however is anticipated to be ready for Cincinnati’s opener Sept. 11. Reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd make up the most effective receiver teams within the league. Running again Joe Mixon additionally will profit from the improved O-line. Defensive line and linebackers are stable. Kicker Evan McPherson was a fifth-round draft decide final yr who turned a clutch performer and family title in Cincinnati.
Weaknesses: The Bengals secondary could possibly be inconsistent final season. Safety Jessie Bates III ended a prolonged dispute. Cincinnati has excessive hopes for his or her two prime draft picks, security Daxton Hill and cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt, who’s out at present with a core muscle harm.
Camp Development: Fourth-round draft decide Cordell Volson has been spectacular. He may win the beginning left guard job away from second-year participant Jackson Carman. Rookie Hill doubtless will begin till Bates returns.
Fantasy Player To Watch: WR Tee Higgins says he’s 100% wholesome after having shoulder surgical procedure following the Super Bowl. With defenses keying on Chase, Higgins will once more be an necessary goal for Burrow.
FanDuel Says: Win Super Bowl: +2,200. Over/below wins: 9.5.
Expectations: With a wholesome Burrow and an overhauled offensive line that might open extra lanes for operating again Mixon — who has distinguished himself regardless of being restricted by dangerous blocking in recent times — expectations are off the charts. The secondary is anticipated to be higher with the addition of the 2 rookies.
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