6 players Bengals should pursue NFL cuts

The Cincinnati Bengals are looking to improve their roster by adding players cut by other teams. They are considering options for backup quarterback, offensive line depth, linebacker, and running back.

The Cincinnati Bengals have made improvements to their roster, positioning themselves better than in the past two seasons. However, there are still areas that could use some enhancement.

To continue their quest for improvement, the Bengals can explore the option of adding players who were cut by other teams on cutdown day. Just because these players were released does not mean they can't make a positive impact with the Bengals.

Now, let's dive into some of the best available options for the Bengals to consider.

The backup quarterback battle did not result in a clear winner, as both players underwhelmed during camp and preseason. Ultimately, Jake Browning emerged as the temporary starter over Trevor Siemian, who struggled more. However, with underwhelming performances and several options available on the market, the story may not be over yet.

One player worth considering is Nathan Rourke, whom the Bengals worked out and may have attempted to sign before he joined the Jaguars. The Bengals are familiar with Rourke and seem to have an interest in him, especially after the Jaguars waived him in favor of veteran C.J. Beathard.

Another young quarterback, Will Grier, could be a good fit for the Bengals. Grier's days in Dallas were numbered after the team traded for Trey Lance. In the final preseason game, Grier showcased his potential with an impressive 83% completion percentage, 305 yards, and 2 touchdowns with no interceptions. Although he still has room to grow, Grier possesses a solid arm and the potential to develop further.

Offensive line depth is a significant need for the Bengals, as it is for many teams. Greg Senat has shown promise when called upon to play for the Cleveland Browns. While he hasn't had much regular-season experience, he has performed well enough to surprise those familiar with the Browns team when he was waived. The Bengals can offer Senat a nice birthday present by signing him, as he was waived by the Browns on his birthday.

Though linebacker may not seem like an obvious need for the Bengals, they could benefit from adding someone like Cox. The Bengals' three backup linebackers, Akeem Davis Gaither, Markus Bailey, and Joe Bachie, are all only under contract for this year. Cox, who was waived by the Cowboys, could provide depth and contribute to the roster in 2024.

Cox's recovery from a rough ACL injury in 2021 is still ongoing, and additional recovery time could help him regain his form from his time at LSU.

Another player to consider is Smith, who possesses impressive athleticism. While he was overdrafted by the Panthers in the 2022 draft and subsequently released, Smith proved to be a solid special teamer last year. He could immediately contribute in that role for the Bengals while developing as a linebacker. Although he may not live up to his athleticism, he can still bring value to the team and help compensate for the loss of some backup linebackers in 2024.

Although the Bengals appear to have a solid running back group with Joe Mixon and three capable backups, they still lack a pass-blocking specialist. It wouldn't be surprising if the Bengals scoured the waiver wire for potential additions at the position. One standout option is Zonovan "Bam" Knight, who excels in pass blocking. In 2022, Knight allowed zero pressures on the quarterback in 18 pass block snaps. He also brings versatility as a running back and pass catcher, making him a valuable asset in various formations.

These are just a few players the Bengals could pursue, but we want to hear from you. Who else would you like to see the Bengals consider? Let us know in the comments section!