5 bold predictions for the Cincinnati Bengals in 2018

3. Sam Hubbard will take Carlos Dunlap’s job

Dunlap has been the best pass rusher on the Bengals’ roster for most of his professional career. That’s why more than a few people were surprised to see the team use a third round draft pick on Sam Hubbard. The selection was a clear indication that Cincinnati wants him to take over the left defensive end position eventually.

It’s going to be a challenge to make that happen this season, but the Bengals coaching staff has been effusive in their praise for Hubbard during the preseason. That’s a tell that Cincinnati’s higher-ups want Hubbard to emerge as a key player sooner, rather than later.

Dunlap had 7.5 sacks last season, but when you watch his tape you don’t see him play with the same level of force he did earlier in his career. His physical skills shouldn’t be on the significant decline at the age of 29, but there’s definitely some slippage on film.

Don’t discount the role Hubbard’s contract might play in all this too. 2018 represents the last year of his current deal with the Bengals. If the front office gets the idea he isn’t going to re-sign, they may urge the coaching staff to insert Hubbard into the lineup. This is certainly a bold prediction, but there are clear signs that Hubbard is gaining ground on Dunlap. He has a long way to go, but it’s a long season.