NFL power rankings: Who is biggest threat to Patriots?
By Brad Weiss
Cincinnati Bengals
, AFC North
For Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis, it is playoffs or bust in 2017. Having not won a playoff game his entire coaching career with the Bengals, the veteran head coach heads into the 2017 season on the hot seat. While he does have some talented players returning, that is usually the case in Cincinnati, where they have not been able to get over the playoff hump.
Starting quarterback Andy Dalton is as reliable a quarterback as there is in the AFC North, though he struggles to win the big game. The Bengals added the speedy John Ross from Washington to their receiving corps via the draft, and he should team nicely with A.J. Green. Tight end Tyler Eifert is one of the best in the game, so expect him to play a big role in the offense again in 2017.
The team took a big hit leadership-wise by losing Rey Maualuga, who recently signed with the Miami Dolphins. The best linebacker on the roster is Vontaze Burfict, who is far from a leader when it comes to this team. On paper, this defense should be a good one, but it will be up to guys like Carlos Dunlap and Geno Atkins to lead the way on the field, and in the locker room.
Another year out of the playoffs should spell the end for Lewis, who likely would have no issues finding a job elsewhere. For Dalton and company, they play in a very winnable division, and if they can put it all together, could challenge the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers for supremacy.