CINCINNATI -- The Cincinnati Bengals issued a not-so-subtle challenge for running back Joe Mixon this offseason.
The Bengals released Giovani Bernard, the established veteran who in addition to taking carries off Mixon, performed two primary functions. Bernard was effective in the pass game and was primarily on the field for third downs.
Bernard’s departure shifted those responsibilities to Mixon and the remaining running backs. And for the perhaps the first time in his five-year career, the limits of Mixon’s potential will be tested as he attempts to fill the void Bernard left.