The Cincinnati Bengals are gearing up for a crucial offseason after a disappointing 2024 season.
Finishing with a 9-8 record and missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year, the Bengals are in dire need of change.
With quarterback Joe Burrow's massive contract and other looming financial commitments, the Bengals must find creative solutions to bolster their roster.
With several key free agents and draft picks at their disposal, the Bengals have the opportunity to make significant changes.
However, the financial constraints and the need to retain core players like Tee Higgins and Trey Hendrickson make it challenging to address all areas of concern.
Nonetheless, they now have an opportunity, as wide receiver Deebo Samuel has requested a trade from the San Francisco 49ers.
The Bengals could change the game by pursuing a trade for a proven talent like Deebo Samuel, but it comes with its own set of risks and rewards.
Acquiring Samuel from the 49ers would provide the Bengals with a dynamic playmaker who can contribute both as a receiver and a rusher.
He would complement the existing receiving corps, including Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, should they retain him, creating a formidable trio that defenses would struggle to contain.
However, trading for Samuel would not come without its challenges. The 49ers are likely to demand a significant trade deal in return, potentially including high draft picks and promising young players.
The 49ers might request the inclusion of a player like Higgins or Chase in the deal.
Additionally, the Bengals would need to address Samuel's contract. He signed a three-year, $71.55 million extension in 2022, and the Bengals would need to navigate the financial implications of adding his salary to their cap.
Samuel is a great player, but he might not be the one that the Bengals are looking for. This is particularly true given the club's current focus on enhancing their defense.
