The Cincinnati Bengals are entering a new era in their running game, with a fresh face set to lead the way in rushing for the first time in five years. This shift has resulted in the Bengals being overlooked by experts and the media, who are not giving due credit to the revamped running back room.
The departure of Joe Mixon, the former centerpiece of the Bengals’ ground game, has opened the door for new talent to step up and make a name for themselves in Cincinnati. Mixon’s trade to the Houston Texans in exchange for a seventh-round pick signals a changing of the guard in the Bengals backfield.
In his place, the Bengals have brought in Zack Moss, a seasoned veteran with four years of NFL experience under his belt. Moss has shown flashes of brilliance in his career, with over 2,000 yards and 14 touchdowns to his name. His breakout season in 2023 saw him eclipse the 100-yard rushing mark twice, proving that he has the potential to be a difference-maker in the Bengals’ offense.
Joining Moss in the Bengals’ backfield is Chase Brown, a second-year player looking to make his mark in the NFL. Despite limited opportunities in his rookie season, Brown showcased his versatility as a receiver, hauling in 14 passes for 156 yards and a touchdown. His explosive playmaking ability could be a valuable asset for the Bengals in the upcoming season.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding their running back room, the Bengals have reason to be optimistic about their ground game. In 2023, the team ranked ninth in the NFL in run-block win rate, a testament to their ability to open up running lanes for their backs. With the addition of tackle Trent Brown, an elite run blocker, the Bengals’ offensive line is poised to create opportunities for Moss and Brown to thrive.
Despite these promising developments, the Bengals’ running backs have gone largely unnoticed in preseason rankings and projections. In a recent poll conducted by ESPN, neither Moss nor Brown received a single vote from NFL coaches, scouts, and executives when naming the top running backs in the league. This lack of recognition only adds fuel to the fire for the Bengals’ young backfield, who are eager to prove their worth on the field.
As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on the Bengals’ running backs as they look to defy the odds and make a statement in the NFL. With Moss and Brown leading the charge, Cincinnati has the potential to surprise the league and emerge as a force to be reckoned with in the rushing game. Watch out, NFL – the Bengals’ running backs are ready to make their mark.
