In a bid to strengthen their roster for a potential playoff push, the Cincinnati Bengals have reportedly hosted two seasoned NFL veterans – cornerback Xavien Howard and running back Leonard Fournette – for visits and workouts.
Howard, a four-time Pro Bowler with a reputation for high-level pass defense, and Fournette, a Super Bowl-winning running back, could offer valuable skills and experience as the Bengals navigate a challenging season.
Cincinnati’s current record stands at 4-6, and while quarterback Joe Burrow has delivered strong performances, the team’s inconsistent defense has made wins elusive.
Even star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase expressed his frustration, calling the team’s 4-6 record “crazy.”
However, statistics reveal part of the challenge: Cincinnati allows an average of 26.2 points per game, ranking as one of the sixth-highest in the league, despite a powerful offense averaging 27 points per game, which also ranks sixth in the NFL.
Bengals fans are used to the team digging themselves holes early in the season. However, more times than not Burrow has been able to turn things around and save the day.
What makes this season extra frustrating for Cincinnati is the fact that despite Burrow playing at a high level, the losses continue to pile up due largely to their underperforming defense.
While Howard is nowhere near the player he once was (if he was, he would’ve been signed already), bringing him aboard would be a low-risk, high-reward move for a team in desperate need of defensive help.
Known for his playmaking skills, Howard led the league in interceptions (10) and pass deflections (20) in the 2020 season, earning a coveted spot on the All-Pro team that year.
Though that 2020 form is a thing of the past, Howard’s experience could offer crucial mentorship for Cincinnati’s young defenders.
On the offensive side, Fournette brings Super Bowl experience from his 2020 stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he played a leading role in their championship run.
His presence could help support rookie running back Chase Brown, adding depth and easing the pressure on Brown as he continues to develop.
Even if the Bengals opt not to sign either player, the workouts signal a focus on reinforcing leadership and productivity for the stretch run.
For a team just three years removed from a Super Bowl appearance, adding playoff-proven talent like Howard and/or Fournette could make a whole lot of sense.
What are your thoughts on both Howard and Fournette? … Do either have enough left in the tank to make a true difference on the field?
As for the Bengals, do you think they’ll be able to turn things around and regain the Super Bowl contending form we’ve become accustomed to seeing from them???
