2022 AFC North Preview: Breaking down the Cleveland Browns division
By Greg Newland
Cincinnati Bengals Preview:
Contrary to the Ravens and Steelers, the Cincinnati Bengals have proven to be one of the worst-run organizations in professional sports. The Cleveland Browns have certainly had their moments, but the Bengals have had some colossal missteps and yet find themselves with one of the best quarterbacks in the league.
No one was more surprised than me to see the Bengals in the Super Bowl in 2021 and to be honest, I think it was a bit of a fluke. I don’t mean that the Bengals aren’t a good team, but they did have a very nice playoff draw last year which was a big help.
Joe Burrow to me is the best quarterback in the AFC North. I’m not saying Watson can’t quickly overtake that position, but after sitting out for a full season he is going to have to prove it after watching Burrow make so many plays last season.
This offseason has been a huge home run for the Bengals as well, not only did they add a few nice pieces on their defense, they upgraded the offensive line substantially. As good as Burrow was, I can’t imagine what he could do with a halfway decent line in front of him.
Expect the Bengals to be contenders again in 2022. I could easily see them winning the AFC North, but remember they are a young team who could also let some games slip away and push them into the wildcard.
On top of that, a ton rides on Burrow for this team. If the offensive line isn’t improved and he gets pummeled again, they are an injury to him away from being a bottom five team in the NFL.