The Cincinnati Bengals are in the market for a pass rusher, and they may have found a potential option in an unlikely place – the Green Bay Packers. With free agency looming, the Packers may have to make some tough decisions, and one player who could become a cap casualty is a familiar face to the Bengals organization.
Kyler Fackrell, a linebacker for the Packers, has been with the team since 2016. However, with a new coaching staff and changes to the defense, Fackrell’s future in Green Bay is uncertain. The 28-year-old is set to become a free agent this offseason, and the Packers may not have the financial flexibility to keep him on the roster.
But for the Bengals, Fackrell could be a valuable addition to their defense. And it’s not just because of his on-field abilities. Fackrell has a strong connection with the Bengals’ new defensive coordinator, Lou Anarumo. Anarumo was the defensive backs coach for the New York Giants when Fackrell was a rookie in 2016, and the two developed a close relationship during their time together.
Anarumo is known for his ability to get the best out of his players, and that was evident in Fackrell’s breakout season in 2018. Despite starting only seven games, Fackrell recorded 10.5 sacks and was a key contributor to the Packers’ defense. His versatility and pass-rushing skills could be a valuable asset to the Bengals’ defense, which struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks last season.
Fackrell’s familiarity with Anarumo’s defensive scheme could also give him an edge in the Bengals’ system. He already has a strong understanding of the playbook and could seamlessly transition into his role on the team. This could be especially beneficial for a team like the Bengals, who will be implementing a new defensive scheme under Anarumo.
But it’s not just his connection with Anarumo that makes Fackrell an appealing option for the Bengals. He also brings a wealth of experience to the table. In his four years with the Packers, Fackrell has played in 61 games and has recorded 111 tackles, 16.5 sacks, and an interception. He has also proven to be durable, missing only one game in his career.
The Bengals are in desperate need of a pass rusher, and Fackrell could be the missing piece that helps their defense take the next step. With his experience and skill set, he could provide much-needed depth to the Bengals’ linebacker corps and be a valuable contributor on the field.
Of course, there is always the concern of Fackrell’s price tag. As a free agent, he will have the opportunity to test the market and may demand a significant salary. But with the salary cap expected to increase in the coming years, the Bengals could have the financial flexibility to make a move for Fackrell.
In addition, the Bengals could potentially restructure Fackrell’s contract to make it more cap-friendly. With his connection to Anarumo and the opportunity to be a starter for the Bengals, Fackrell may be willing to take a pay cut to join his former coach in Cincinnati.
There is no doubt that the Bengals have a lot of work to do this offseason, and finding a pass rusher should be at the top of their list. Fackrell may not be the biggest name on the market, but he could be a valuable addition to the team, both on and off the field. His strong connection with Anarumo and his proven track record make him a compelling option for the Bengals to consider in free agency.
In the end, it will come down to whether the Bengals are willing to take a chance on Fackrell and whether he is willing to make the move to Cincinnati. But one thing is for sure – the potential pairing of Fackrell and Anarumo could be a winning combination for the Bengals’ defense.
