Minimal impact has been the consistent theme for the 2019 Bengals’ rookie class. For a team that relies so heavily on the NFL Draft, this is not the reality Cincinnati wants to face nine weeks into the season.
Playing time has not been the main issue. Four of their first six draft picks have either started or established themselves as role players. Injuries have only really hindered two players, but one of them was poised to solve one of their biggest weaknesses.
Through eight games, the rookies who’ve played for the Bengals simply haven’t done enough to push the needle for a struggling team.