Bengals Boost Squad with Brightwell and Eye Fournette
In a series of strategic moves designed to bolster their roster depth, the Cincinnati Bengals have signed former New York Giants running back Gary Brightwell to their practice squad. Brightwell's signing comes amidst a flurry of activity around the Bengals backfield, aiming to enhance their ground attack as the season progresses.
Brightwell: A Promising Addition
Gary Brightwell, who was selected by the Giants in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, brings a combination of youth and experience to the Bengals. During his tenure with the Giants, Brightwell demonstrated flashes of his potential by accumulating 41 rushes for 164 yards and a touchdown, complemented by 11 receptions for 92 yards. Despite a promising start, a hamstring injury during the 2022 season saw him sidelined and eventually placed on injured reserve.
Before his recent signing, Brightwell had a brief stint with the Jacksonville Jaguars during a training camp earlier this year, showcasing his capabilities to new suitors. Following that, he joined the Cleveland Browns' practice squad in late August, only to be released by the Browns on October 29. His journey through these teams reflects the challenges and dedication inherent in maintaining a presence in the highly competitive NFL landscape.
Injuries and Opportunities
The Bengals are currently dealing with the absence of Zack Moss, who has been placed on injured reserve due to a neck injury. This unfortunate turn of events has necessitated an infusion of talent and depth into their running back rotation. In addition to acquiring Brightwell, the Bengals have also secured Khalil Herbert from the Chicago Bears, signaling their proactive approach in fortifying their offensive unit.
Exploring Veteran Options
A notable development in the Bengals' quest to round out their backfield includes workouts conducted with veteran running back Leonard Fournette. Fournette, a fourth overall pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars from LSU, has established himself as a proven asset in the NFL, with a remarkable career featuring two seasons of over 1,300 yards from scrimmage and a standout 1,674 yards in the 2019 season alone.
Fournette's NFL journey saw him being waived by the Jaguars in the summer of 2020, but he notably contributed to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Super Bowl LV triumph. His career totals of 4,518 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns, alongside 312 catches for 2,219 yards and seven touchdowns, underscore his versatility and impact. Most recently, Fournette briefly joined the Buffalo Bills' practice squad in late October of last season, making appearances in two games and logging 40 yards on 12 carries.
The Bengals' interest in Fournette signifies their ambition to blend youthful energy with seasoned expertise. If pursued further, his experience and track record could provide a significant boost, particularly in scenarios that demand high-pressure, game-changing performances.
The Road Ahead
With these calculated additions and potential acquisitions, the Bengals are clearly setting the stage for a diversified and resilient lineup. As the season progresses, the integration of these players will likely be pivotal in the Bengals' campaign to solidify their status in the league. By carefully compiling a roster that merges promising young talent with veteran experience, the Cincinnati Bengals are ensuring they remain competitive and adaptable amidst the unpredictable challenges of the NFL season.