The Cincinnati Bengals fell short of expectations in 2023, largely due to injuries. Can they bounce back in 2024? Three key questions loom large.
The Cincinnati Bengals endured a disappointing 2023 season, primarily due to a string of injuries, most notably Joe Burrow’s season-ending wrist injury in Week 11. Despite this setback, the Bengals still managed to secure nine wins and nearly clinched a playoff berth in the highly competitive AFC North. This underscores the team’s inherent potential and raises crucial questions about their prospects for the upcoming 2024 season. Can the Bengals reclaim their position as Super Bowl contenders? The answers to three critical questions will determine their fate.
Defensive Improvements: A Critical Need for the Bengals
The Bengals’ defense struggled mightily in 2023, ranking 31st in the NFL, a significant drop from their 16th-place finish in 2022. This stark contrast highlights a glaring weakness that the team attempted to address during the offseason. The additions of defensive lineman Sheldon Rankins and safeties Geno Stone and Vonn Bell, along with draft picks Kris Jenkins Jr. and McKinnley Jackson, signal a commitment to bolstering the defensive unit.
However, these acquisitions raise a pivotal question: are these improvements sufficient to transform the Bengals’ defense into a formidable force? Beyond Trey Hendrickson, the team lacks standout defensive talent, potentially leaving them vulnerable in 2024. The effectiveness of the revamped defense will be a key determinant of the Bengals’ overall success.
Replacing Joe Mixon: Can the Bengals’ Running Game Thrive?
The Bengals traded veteran running back Joe Mixon to the Houston Texans, leaving a void in their backfield. While Mixon’s efficiency was debatable, he consistently delivered 1,000-yard seasons and provided a reliable receiving option. His replacement, Zack Moss, boasts a career-best of 794 rushing yards, raising concerns about the Bengals’ running game.
The team’s hopes may rest on second-year running back Chase Brown, who saw limited action in his rookie season. Brown’s potential to emerge as a lead back could significantly impact the Bengals’ offensive strategy. A potent running game is essential to complement the team’s formidable passing attack and alleviate pressure on Joe Burrow. The success or failure of the running game will play a crucial role in the Bengals’ 2024 campaign.
Joe Burrow’s Health: The Key to the Bengals’ Success
Joe Burrow’s injury history casts a shadow over the Bengals’ aspirations. In his four seasons, he has yet to play a full season, raising concerns about his durability. His 2023 season was cut short by a wrist injury, preceded by a lingering calf issue. Burrow’s health remains uncertain, as he has been noncommittal about his recovery.
When healthy, Burrow ranks among the NFL’s elite quarterbacks, capable of leading a high-powered offense featuring Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. However, his consistent injury woes pose a significant threat to the Bengals’ Super Bowl hopes.
Burrow’s availability will undoubtedly dictate the Bengals’ fortunes in 2024. If he can remain healthy, the team has the potential to make a deep playoff run. However, another injury-plagued season could derail their ambitions. The Bengals’ success hinges on Burrow’s ability to stay on the field. His health is the ultimate X-factor for the team in the upcoming season.
