.jpg)
1 hour ago
3
Every franchise has that one move during the offseason that really defines its following season. For the Cincinnati Bengals, that move is pretty clear: adding Dexter Lawrence.
When the Bengals added Lawrence, everything changed. Quarterback Joe Burrow has never been the question. But, the Bengals have struggled on defense, and adding Lawrence totally changes the game in a good way for the team.
In a feature for the NFL's official website, Bucky Brooks discusses one offseason move that could tilt each division race. For the Bengals, he zeros in on Lawrence.
Cincinnati Bengals acquiring Dexter Lawrence is the move of the offseason
"The Bengals' abysmal defense has wasted some of Joe Burrow's prime, but the arrival of Lawrence could lead to a resurgence in Cincinnati," Brooks states in the feature. Of course, he adds that it cost them in the form of the Bengals giving the New York Giants the No. 10 overall pick in April's draft. But, Lawrence was worth it.
Brooks adds that Lawrence still strikes him as a "true game-wrecker when he is fit and focused. As a commanding presence who attracts double teams and extra attention, the three-time Pro Bowler should help the Bengals' edge rushers find more sack opportunities against 1-on-1 matchups on the outside."
Above all, Brooks points out that the new addition should "squash opponents' ground games and eliminate the keep-away tactics used to keep Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Chase Brown on the sidelines."
So, this coming season, if the Bengals' defense can actually stop the other team from getting points on the board, which is the point, after all, it will be a game-changer for Burrow and the offense. Even if they stretch out the defensive clock and still allow a score, if they give the offense much more time to rest, that's also a win.
English (US)