Cincinnati Bengals
Now that Jeff Fisher out of the picture for the Los Angeles Rams, the Cincinnati Bengals are the NFL’s face of mediocrity. The Bengals are just good enough to contend for a playoff spot — and maybe even play a game in January — every year. But their window for title contention passed two years ago when quarterback Andy Dalton hurt his thumb, running back Jeremy Hill fumbled, linebacker Vontaze Burfict went nuts (watch here) and the team lost in the first round — again.
Now wide receiver A.J. Green is heading into his age-29 season and Dalton his age-30 season. The defense finished 18th in efficiency last season and head coach Marvin Lewis has been around since 2003 without winning a single playoff game. Something has to change. The Bengals have to bottom out.
Flip Dalton to a quarterback-needy team — a sort of consolation prize for whoever loses the Tony Romo sweepstakes. Trade Green for draft capital. He’ll no doubt fetch picks at the top of the first round and he’ll no doubt fetch a lot of them. Fire Lewis and hire someone (anyone!) who can shake things up. Look at deals for tight end Tyler Eifert, running backs Gio Bernard and Hill, defensive tackle Geno Atkins and anyone else who will supply draft picks.
Then, build anew. Sure, Cincy will pick in the top-5 for two or three years, but the long-term payoff is much better than another disappointing first-round exit.