In a strategic maneuver to reinforce their backfield, the Cincinnati Bengals have signed running back Gary Brightwell to their practice squad. Brightwell, a former New York Giants player, enters Cincinnati's fold with a promising background and the potential to make an impact.
Bengals Bolster Backfield with Brightwell
The Bengals' decision to add Brightwell comes at a pivotal time. With Zack Moss sidelined due to a neck injury, currently placed on injured reserve, the team needed to ensure depth and versatility in their rushing corps. Brightwell, who was originally drafted by the New York Giants in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL draft, brings a solid professional experience to the Bengals, having demonstrated his capabilities both as a runner and a receiver during his tenure in New York.
Brightwell tallied 41 rushes for 164 yards and a touchdown, complemented by 11 receptions accumulating 92 yards with the Giants. However, his journey wasn't without setbacks; a hamstring injury in the 2022 season ended with him on injured reserve, an obstacle he has since overcome in his career.
Journey Through the League
After his stint with the Giants, Brightwell had a brief period with the Jacksonville Jaguars during their training camp in the summer, further rounding his experience. He subsequently signed with the Cleveland Browns as a practice squad player in late August but was released by the team on October 29, paving the way for his current opportunity with the Bengals.
The addition of Brightwell aligns with Cincinnati’s proactive measure to enhance their roster considering the recent changes and challenges faced. As teams across the league grapple with injuries and fluctuating performances, strategic signings like Brightwell become increasingly crucial.
Competition and Opportunity
Khalil Herbert's acquisition from the Chicago Bears further intensifies the competition among the Bengals' running backs. Herbert's presence adds another layer to the dynamic, offering Cincinnati a combination of power and agility that could complement Brightwell’s style of play.
The Bengals have also explored other options to strengthen their offense. Notably, the team recently held workouts with veteran Leonard Fournette. A seasoned NFL player, Fournette was originally drafted fourth overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars from LSU. He boasts an impressive record, including over 1,300 yards from scrimmage in two separate seasons and a standout 1,674 yards from scrimmage during the 2019 season.
Fournette's Impact and Legacy
Fournette's career is marked by notable achievements, including a pivotal role in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' triumph at Super Bowl LV. Though his recent tenure with the Buffalo Bills was short-lived, playing in two games with 40 rushing yards on 12 carries, his presence and experience would add significant depth to any team. Despite being waived by the Jaguars in 2020, Fournette's contributions to the league are undeniable, with career statistics featuring 4,518 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns, alongside 312 catches for 2,219 yards and seven touchdowns.
As the Bengals navigate the challenging landscape of this NFL season, their roster decisions, notably Brightwell's inclusion, provide hope and anticipation for the team's resilience and adaptability. With the playoffs on the horizon, these strategic adjustments could play a crucial role in cementing their position and striving for success in the upcoming games.