The Cincinnati Bengals have a big list of free agents to address this offseason before the market opens and much of the attention figures to go to the defensive side of the ball overall.
Veteran tight end Mike Gesicki, though, is a notable one. While Gesicki presents an interesting dilemma for the Bengals, they could just as easily add a blue-chip prospect at the position in the draft.
One such suggestion from a recent analysis is Clemson’s Jake Briningstool, where Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski lists the Bengals as a fit:
The two-time third-team All-ACC selection is a long and athletic option who has the ability to threaten the seam and create mismatches against linebackers. However, he does have a thin frame, which could limit his effectiveness as an in-line option.
On paper, Briningstool certainly looks the part of a guy who could fill the type of role. He’s a 6’6″ weapon who jus caught 49 passes for 530 yards and seven scores last year.
The Bengals have made it clear through their actions that they really like prospects Cam Grandy and Tanner McLachlan. There is also high hopes that Erick All Jr. can shake the injury bug and stay on the field.
But depending on what happens with Gesicki and in free agency overall, the Bengals could absolutely be looking at prospects like Briningstool on draft day.