The Cincinnati Bengals desperately need a tight end, and former first-round pick Noah Fant could be the solution in the 2024 NFL free agency.
This article delves into Fant’s potential fit with the Bengals, analyzing his career performance and the team’s need at the tight end position.
Bengals’ Tight End Predicament and Fant’s Potential
The Bengals lacked a consistent tight end presence in 2023. With no current tight ends under contract, addressing this need is crucial for the upcoming season. CBS Sports analyst Jared Dubin suggests Noah Fant as a potential solution, pairing the former Seahawk with quarterback Joe Burrow.
Noah Fant’s Career Trajectory: From First-Round Pick to Potential Bargain
Fant, the 20th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, hasn’t quite lived up to his initial billing. After a promising start with the Denver Broncos, his production plateaued. A trade to the Seattle Seahawks in 2022 didn’t yield the desired results, culminating in a career-low 2023 season with only 32 receptions for 414 yards and no touchdowns. This dip in performance could make him a surprisingly affordable option for the Bengals.
Could Joe Burrow Unlock Fant’s Potential?
Despite his recent struggles, Fant possesses the talent to be a valuable asset. At 26 years old, he still has time to reach his full potential. The prospect of playing with a top-tier quarterback like Joe Burrow could revitalize his career. Burrow’s accuracy and ability to spread the ball could create favorable matchups for Fant, allowing him to exploit his athleticism and size.
Analyzing Fant’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Fant’s size and athleticism make him a potential mismatch for opposing defenses. However, he needs to improve his consistency as a receiver and become a more reliable target in the red zone. In Cincinnati, he would have the opportunity to work with a talented receiving corps, potentially drawing less attention from defenses and opening up opportunities for big plays.
The Bengals’ Offseason Decision: Is Fant the Answer?
The Bengals’ decision to pursue Fant will likely depend on his asking price and their other offseason priorities. While he presents a potential value signing, the team must weigh his inconsistencies against the need for a proven tight end. The coming weeks will reveal whether the Bengals view Fant as the missing piece to their offensive puzzle.
In conclusion, Noah Fant represents a high-risk, high-reward option for the Bengals. While his recent performance has been underwhelming, a change of scenery and the opportunity to play with Joe Burrow could reignite his career.
