NFL Rumors: Cincinnati Bengals to give Giovani Bernard 300 touches in 2014?
By Bryan Rose
Cincinnati Bengals ‘backup’ running back Giovani Bernard was one of the NFL’s most exciting players in 2013.
Assuming he’s given a bigger role in 2014, that excitement will only grow.
Barring an oddity, Bernard will be the Bengals starting running back this year and under new offensive coordinator Hue Jackson, he could be in line for 300 touches.
"Green-Ellis had 50 more carries last season, but Bernard had two more touches and, according to PFF, took 155 more snaps. After a spectacular NFL Rookie of the Year finalist season, Bernard is only going to get more work and no doubt is going to border on 300 touches."
Jackson is known for his love of running the ball and working magic with running backs, so that should only add to Bernard’s potential for the upcoming season.
It’s possible the Bengals could still add a running back via the draft or in free agency, though, it’s doubtful they’d eat into Bernard’s touches much – if at all.
Bernard had 226 touches as a rookie in 2013, 170 of which were in rushing form.