The Cincinnati Bengals could be in the market for a new backup quarterback to sit behind Jake Browning in case an even worse scenario comes to pass.
On Tuesday, the Bengals did add Brett Rypien to the 53-man roster, while Mike White and Sean Clifford were signed off the street to join the practice squad. But while all three guys have several years of NFL experience, none of them have shown enough to think they’d be an effective starter if, heaven forbid, Browning were to be knocked out due to injury.
There are, however, several notable names out there who are still with NFL teams, be it on the practice squad or on the 53-man roster.
It is important to emphasize that no one on this list is going to come in and start over Browning or even compete to start. Cincinnati just needs more insurance.
With that in mind, here are some potential quarterbacks on other teams that could be worth kicking the tires on.
Malik Willis, Green Bay Packers
Willis was once a promising prospect for the Tennessee Titans, but he spent last season with the Green Bay Packers, and it seems to have done him some good, as he played well as a spot starter. That is exactly what the Bengals need, and they’ve already reportedly reached out to the Packers about him.
However, because Willis is still relatively young and has shown some promise, the Packers’ asking price likely isn’t a small one.
Jameis Winston, New York Giants
Winston may be one of the most acquirable names on this list, as he is the third quarterback in New York behind Russell Wilson and their rookie, Jaxson Dart. Winston has a reputation as a bit of a wild card or gunslinger. He will have high touchdown and interception numbers. He does have extensive starting experience. He has started 87 games and has 10 years of experience.
Will Grier, Dallas Cowboys
If the Bengals go the route of looking to poach a quarterback off a practice squad, Grier could be a great option. He currently resides on Dallas’ practice squad, and Cincinnati could sign him directly to their 53-man roster to acquire him. They have familiarity with him, as he was on the Bengals’ practice squad in 2023 for a spell. The major issue is that Grier lacks the experience the Bengals would likely hope to have sitting in wait behind Browning as insurance.
Tyler Huntley, Baltimore Ravens
Huntley is currently on the Ravens’ practice squad, so like Grier, he wouldn’t cost draft capital to acquire. He has some experience starting as well, mostly with Baltimore. He even made the Pro Bowl in 2022 (what a joke).
Kirk Cousins, Atlanta Falcons
Admittedly, this one is highly unlikely for multiple reasons. If the Bengals are serious about having an experienced veteran behind Browning, Cousins may be the best guy out there who could be acquired (maybe). The Falcons have been steadfast in not wanting to move the veteran quarterback.
Cincinnati would also probably have to pay quite a bit, as his contract carries a $40 million cap hit currently. That would obviously need to be reworked as part of a deal. He has played 13 years in the league and started 159 games. He has been up and down in his career, but generally, when surrounded with weapons, he’s done well overall.
Who do you believe the Bengals should target?
0 CommentsSee More:
