The Cincinnati Bengals have quietly had one of the best defenses in the NFL over the past few seasons. While they haven’t been the most talented, defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has been able to scheme a great unit. The team is bringing in some veteran help. Former first-round pick of the New Orleans Saints Sheldon Rankins has signed a two-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Cincinnati Bengals Sign DT Sheldon Rankins
The #Bengals just now agreed to terms on a two-year, $26 million deal with DT Sheldon Rankins, sources say. Another nice payday for the former first-round pick, who heads to Cincinnati to join Lou Anarumo’s defense after recording six sacks last season for the #Texans. pic.twitter.com/wiZGVqAOAo
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 14, 2024
It is a two-year, $26 million deal for Sheldon Rankins. Reports indicate there was a fierce battle between the Houston Texans and Cincinnati Bengals to sign Rankins. He decided to come to Cincinnati. Rankins had one of his best years last season, tallying up six sacks, which was the second most in a season during his career.
Pretty much every team can use defensive line depth. However, the Cincinnati Bengals have DJ Reader as a pending free agent, and all indications are the team will not re-sign him. Rankins can now fill the void left by Reader.
2024 Outlook For The Cincinnati Bengals
It is difficult to get a clear picture of the 2024 season for the Cincinnati Bengals because so much is up in the air with this team. Tee Higgins has the franchise tag but has reportedly requested a trade. Tyler Boyd’s status is up in the air as well. Joe Mixon was traded away to the Texans. The good news for the Bengals is they have Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase. Those two players cover up a lot of holes on the team.
The Cincinnati Bengals will be in the mix next year. The AFC is a gauntlet, but this team has shown that it can take down the best in the league.
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Matt has been following sports since he was a kid. While football is his primary focus, Matt can talk about any sport anytime. He is a banker in Wisconsin and hosts two podcasts, Beers and Ears & Discontinued on Display.
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