The Cincinnati Bengals are at a pivotal juncture as a franchise, and Duke Tobin’s approach seems unchanged from previous years. This consistency raises eyebrows.
While Tobin isn't solely to blame for the Bengals missing the playoffs over the past three years, there are elements within his control that haven't been executed effectively. Much of the responsibility lies with the ownership and leadership surrounding Mike Brown, but Tobin's influence is significant.
At the recent NFL Scouting Combine, Tobin emphasized his commitment to an aggressive offseason strategy. He stated, "I've been doing this a long time.
I've never not been all in ... That's what we do.
We want to be all in."
Despite these assurances, the Bengals’ actions last offseason tell a different story. The team signed only one notable free agent, defensive tackle T.J.
Slaton, whose performance in Green Bay didn’t hint at elite capabilities. The Bengals’ struggles in run defense last season highlight this misstep, with Slaton potentially becoming a salary cap casualty.
There's a strong argument for the Bengals to secure two new starters at defensive tackle to address these shortcomings. The team has the cap space to make significant improvements if the front office acknowledges past draft and free agency missteps.
Last offseason, the Bengals extended Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, which was expected. However, leaving substantial free-agent funds unutilized and alienating key players like Trey Hendrickson and first-round pick Shemar Stewart overshadowed these moves.
Speaking of Shemar Stewart, it’s puzzling why Tobin has spent four consecutive first rounds on players not expected to start as rookies. Stewart’s college stats and missed tackle rate raise questions about his immediate impact in the NFL.
The frustration with Tobin’s approach is palpable. After last season's disappointing 6-11 record, the Bengals must make substantial changes to avoid further setbacks. Joe Burrow’s future with the team could hinge on these decisions.