Cincinnati Bengals Bolster Backfield with Addition of Gary Brightwell
The Cincinnati Bengals have taken a strategic step to reinforce their roster by signing former New York Giants running back Gary Brightwell to their practice squad. This move comes as the team faces an injury setback with one of their key players.
Brightwell, a player with a career marked by both promise and challenges, initially entered the NFL when he was drafted by the New York Giants in the sixth round of the 2021 Draft. With the Giants, Brightwell showcased his potential, accumulating 41 rushes for 164 yards and a touchdown, along with contributing 11 receptions for 92 yards. These performances highlighted his versatility and capability to be a dual-threat on the field, but his journey in the NFL has been anything but smooth sailing.
Unfortunately, the 2022 season saw Brightwell’s momentum halted due to a hamstring injury that placed him on injured reserve. The injury impeded his development and significantly limited his on-field opportunities. After recovering, Brightwell sought to re-establish himself during a brief stint with the Jacksonville Jaguars during a summer training camp, though he did not secure a long-term place with the team. In late August, he caught the attention of the Cleveland Browns, who added him to their practice squad. However, his tenure with the Browns was short-lived, as he was released on October 29.
Meanwhile, the Bengals are dealing with their own set of challenges in their running back room. Zack Moss, a pivotal part of their offense, has been sidelined with a neck injury and consequently placed on injured reserve. This development necessitated the need for reinforcements, leading to Brightwell’s acquisition. The Bengals’ decision to sign Brightwell signals their intent to maintain depth in the position and to explore potential contributors who can step up when needed.
Exploring Options: Khalil Herbert and Leonard Fournette
In addition to Brightwell, the Bengals have also made moves elsewhere to ensure their roster has ample depth. They have acquired Khalil Herbert from the Chicago Bears, another player who can provide immediate options in their backfield. His addition comes as part of a broader strategy to strengthen their running game amidst the uncertainties caused by injuries.
Moreover, the Bengals have been proactive in evaluating other veteran talents. Recently, they conducted workouts with Leonard Fournette, a seasoned player with a remarkable history. Fournette, known for his powerful running style, was initially drafted fourth overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars, and has had an impressive career with over 1,300 yards from scrimmage in two separate seasons. Particularly notable was his 2019 season, where he amassed 1,674 yards from scrimmage. His career statistics are further complemented by 4,518 rushing yards, 34 touchdowns, and 312 catches for 2,219 yards along with seven receiving touchdowns.
Fournette has experienced his share of career highs and lows. He played a significant role in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ successful Super Bowl LV campaign, but has also faced being waived by the Jaguars in 2020. Most recently, Fournette briefly joined the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad towards the end of last season, making limited appearances in two games where he managed 40 yards on 12 carries.
Brightwell's Potential Role
As the Bengals look to navigate the challenges of the current season, Brightwell’s signing represents a potential opportunity for both player and team. For Brightwell, joining the Bengals’ practice squad offers a chance to re-establish his career in the NFL and to prove his value to a team striving for success. His ability to contribute both in rushing and receiving could provide the Bengals with the flexibility needed amidst their injury concerns.
The Bengals’ approach reflects a keen awareness of the unpredictable nature of the NFL season and the necessity of maintaining a formidable and adaptable roster. With strategic acquisitions and player evaluations like Brightwell, Herbert, and potentially Fournette, the team is positioning itself to stay competitive. As the season progresses, these moves might prove pivotal in their quest to navigate through the adversities of injuries and emergent challenges on the field.