The Cincinnati Bengals learned a lot about their team during the 2023 season. Despite franchise quarterback Joe Burrow suffering a season-ending injury, they stayed in the playoff race right until the very end.
Jake Browning did a wonderful job of stepping into the starting role in his place, going 4-3 as a starter. The Bengals didn’t make the postseason, snapping their two-year AFC Championship appearance streak. But, they did finish with a 9-8 record to provide the franchise with some positive momentum heading into the 2024 offseason.
There are certainly a few needs on the roster to ensure that the team can get back on track. It wouldn’t hurt to add another pass rusher and the weapons around Burrow could be changed. Wide receivers Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd are both free agents and the team could use an upgrade at tight end.
NFL News & Rumors: Amarius Mims, 2024 NFL Draft, Cincinnati Bengals Updates
However, if they want to have sustained success, the Bengals need to figure things out along their offensive line. They cannot continue to let Burrow get hit as much as he has been, as the team surrendered 50 sacks this season.
It certainly hasn’t been from a lack of effort as Cincinnati has put assets into the offensive line in recent offseasons. Alas, they need some more help and PFF’s mock draft simulator has provided them with some. Georgia tackle Amarius Mims has been named the prospect the Bengals can target to address their biggest weakness.
“Take one look at Mims, and the immediate takeaway will be, “They don’t make many like this dude.” He has a massive frame, but he’s athletic with it, too. His flexibility allows him to get a wide base while keeping his back flat to generate a ton of power and more leverage than one would expect. He’s light on experience but will be coveted come draft time,” as shared on PFF’s Big Board Analysis.
The Bengals’ offensive line stayed quite healthy in 2023, as their starters all played over 1,000 offensive snaps this season. But right tackle Jonah Williams is set to hit free agency. He was not happy about being moved from left tackle and could test the market for opportunities elsewhere.
NFL News & Rumors: Amarius Mims, 2024 NFL Draft, Cincinnati Bengals Updates
His departure would create a huge void in the Bengals’ offensive line, which Mims could certainly step right into and fill from Day 1. He lacks experience with only eight career starts, but his size provides tantalizing potential for teams.
Possessing a first-round grade, it could take some time for Mims to reach his full potential. But, he is worth the investment given the upside with his rare blend of size, strength and athleticism.
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