[jwplayer 99PZYacN]
While offensive line isn’t as big of a sour point as the defense for the Cincinnati Bengals, the quality of the free-agent class still makes it an intriguing option.
One possible option for the Bengals in this area is Joe Thuney.
Other free-agent profiles: Derek Wolfe, Joe Schobert.
Background
Thuney is a 2016 third-round pick who at the age of 27 has blossomed into his prime as a starter for the New England Patriots. He played college ball at North Carolina State. He won the starting left guard spot as a rookie. He’s from Centerville, Ohio.
Notes
Over the past few seasons, Thuney has quietly been one of the NFL’s better guards while not missing a game. Last year, he graded at 77.4 at Pro Football Focus, allowing just one sack. The year before, 73.5 with no sacks. He also put in his best season to date penalty-wise last year, getting called for none.
Pros
Thuney is a Pro Bowl-caliber player who hasn’t really tapered off from that level of play since entering the league. It’d be nice for Jonah Williams to start his career next to this sort of stability, learning from a guy who has already started in three Super Bowls. Signing him would also stabilize things up front for Joe Burrow. While the LSU quarterback might be good when things break down, it’s certainly better to have proven names in front of him reducing the number of hits he takes. If Thuney arrived it would mean three of the five spots cemented for a long time, leaving right guard and tackle as question marks.
Cons
Thuney is about to get PAID. We’re probably talking about market-resetting money. Spotrac spitballs it at nearly $14 million average annual salary over five years. Top-tier guards slipping to market generally reset it and he won’t be an exception. The Bengals showed us in recent history they’re not a fan of doing so at guard (Kevin Zeitler). Big money here would mean fewer funds for other items like extensions elsewhere. And while Thuney is a great pass-blocker, he isn’t as notable in the running game. The Bengals also already like Michael Jordan on the left side — it might make more sense to invest in the right side of the line. Thuney’s arrival would push aside Jordan and Billy Price, at a minimum.
Verdict
This is a “why not?” conversation at this point. Thuney is costly but the offensive line problems are tiring. If bringing him on plays a part in guaranteeing Jonah Williams succeeds as a pro and Joe Burrow stays healthy, that’s worth the sticker price, right? They’re also building around a rookie quarterback contract, so there’s some wiggle room. Unfortunately, while it might be a good idea to outside observers, the front office in Cincinnati probably isn’t going to agree.
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