The Cincinnati Bengals have had a rather underwhelming 2023 season so far. While their chances for making the playoffs still exist, they aren’t particularly strong. Even if they do manage to secure a spot, Joe Burrow’s absence makes their prospects for a deep postseason run quite challenging.
In light of this situation, the Bengals must shift their attention towards the future. It’s essential for them to strategize for the offseason, focusing on enhancing their roster to support Burrow better, thereby steering the team towards potential Super Bowl success. Recently, Bleacher Report proposed various free agency recommendations for NFL teams, suggesting that the Bengals target defensive lineman Teair Tart from the Houston Texans.
Earlier, the Bengals made an attempt to acquire Tart when he was waived by the Tennessee Titans in mid-December, but the Texans had a higher waiver priority. Bleacher Report acknowledged, “Tart could have been immensely beneficial following D.J. Reader’s season-ending quad injury, yet the Bengals will have to wait until spring for a chance to add the 6’2”, 304-pound interior defender.”
During the 2023 season, Teair Tart played 11 games for the Titans, starting in nine. He made 21 combined tackles, eight tackles for loss, four QB hits, and one sack. Considering the Bengals’ defensive struggles – allowing 38 touchdowns and an average of 383.3 defensive yards (ranking 31st in the league) – Tart could significantly bolster their defense if they succeed in acquiring him during the offseason.
Cincinnati Bengals Could Have Some Concerns About Houston Texans’ Teair Tart
Although the Cincinnati Bengals are showing interest in Teair Tart, they might want to observe his performance with the Houston Texans before making a strong push to sign him during free agency.
There’s a backstory to Tart’s release from the Titans. While Tart himself requested to be released, the underlying reason revolves around his dissatisfaction with not securing a contract extension from the team. His frustration was evident, and he didn’t conceal it.
Reports suggest that the Titans weren’t pleased with Tart’s attitude, effort, and conditioning, which ultimately led to their decision to release him, as per insights from Paul Kuharsky.
While it’s possible Tart sought the release due to his desire to leave the situation in Tennessee, these circumstances do raise some concerns or red flags regarding his conduct and performance.
