The Bengals depth at LB has taken some major hits this season, especially in recent weeks. Jordan Evans suffered a torn ACL earlier in the year, Akeem Davis-Gaither was placed on IR after suffering a season ending foot injury against the Browns, and now both Logan Wilson and Markus Bailey picked up injuries against the Chargers.
The good news is that Bailey’s injury is said to only be a stinger. There is a chance that he is able to suit up this week against the 49ers. Wilson, on the other hand, was not so fortunate. According to reports, he is expected to miss an extended period with a dislocated shoulder. Wilson has already been ruled out of the Bengals week 14 matchup against the 49ers. The team seems to be holding out hope that he can return in only a few weeks, but at this time, that seems quite optimistic.
While Joe Bachie was solid in relief duty, with the injury troubles at LB, it would make sense for the Bengals to look for some outside help at the position. There are two higher profile names that come to mind.
– Jaylon Smith
Jaylon Smith has fallen off since his once elite play earned him a trip to the 2019 Pro Bowl and a $65M contract extension from the Cowboys. The Cowboys cut him after guys like Jabril Cox passed him on the depth chart, and they figured that they would be better off with the cap relief. Since signing the extension, Smith had struggled in coverage while also falling off against the run. His lack of special teams experience combined with the emergence of other players made him expendable. He was then picked up by the Packers, but didn’t do much to impress, lasting only two games.
That being said, Smith brings excellent athleticism for the position and is still only 26 years old. He certainly could be a worthy reclamation project for the Bengals. As well, while he doesn’t have the experience, his athleticism could make him a nice asset on special teams. If he is able to regain his previous form, he would be an outstanding signing at what would surely be a cheap price.
– Zach Cunningham
Cunningham would be my preferred option of the two. However, the catch is that he must first pass through waivers.
He led the league with 117 tackles last season. While he hasn’t played quite as well in 2021, the reason Cunningham was cut was not actually related to his play. Cunningham was a healthy scratch in last week’s game after being late for covid testing. This was reportedly the second time he was scratched as a disciplinary measure.
Texans head coach David Culley noted that team standards were not consistently being met by Cunningham, which made it an easy decision to cut him. Bringing in a player like that would contradict the emphasis that Zac Taylor has put on team culture, thus far. That being said, with the injuries at the position, it will surely be hard to pass up on a starting caliber player, should he make it to them on waivers.
If the Bengals were to take a flier on waivers, the 26 year old would come with a $275k cap hit this year. Further, he currently has no guaranteed money on his contract for the 2022 season.
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