Cincinnati Bengals
Offense
Andy Dalton got paid like a top quarterback in the offseason, and subsequently drew plenty of criticism. But the Bengals actually had the fourth-best offense in the AFC in 2013.
Coordinator Jay Gruden is now the head coach in Washington, leaving Hue Jackson in charge. Jackson has a rich history of getting the most out of his players, and now has weapons like Gio Bernard and A.J. Green to work with. Perhaps Jackson will find a way to get the most out of Dalton.
Defense
The AFC’s top defense a year ago, the unit should be strengthened by the return of Geno Atkins, as well as the addition of first-round pick Darqueze Dennard, who coach Marvin Lewis said was the best rookie corner he’s ever seen.
But the unit will be without coordinator Mike Zimmer, now at the helm of the Vikings and top pass-rusher Michael Johnson signed with Tampa Bay in free agency, while parts of the secondary are on the downside of their careers.
Outlook
The rest of the AFC North should be much improved in 2014, and it’s going to be difficult for Cincinnati to overcome the loss of both coordinators. But the Bengals should be vying for a division crown, largely because of how much talent is up and down this roster.
The offense has more firepower, and there’s a lot of optimism around Jackson calling the plays. This outstanding defense has some questions, which begin with how healthy Atkins is. But the Bengals are a playoff team; how much Dalton progresses throughout the year will determine how far the team goes.
