As the NFL season progresses, teams continue to adjust their rosters in response to injuries and performance needs. Recently, the Cincinnati Bengals made a noteworthy addition by signing running back Gary Brightwell to their practice squad. Brightwell, a former New York Giants player, brings with him not only experience but also the potential for future contributions on the field.
Gary Brightwell's Journey in the NFL
Gary Brightwell's entry into the NFL began when he was drafted by the New York Giants in the sixth round of the 2021 draft. During his tenure with the Giants, Brightwell demonstrated his capabilities with 41 rushes amounting to 164 yards, a touchdown, and adding 11 receptions for 92 yards. However, his journey with the Giants was not without challenges, as he suffered a hamstring injury in the 2022 season, relegating him to injured reserve status.
After his recovery, Brightwell looked for new opportunities to showcase his talents. This pursuit led him to a brief stint at the Jacksonville Jaguars’ training camp during the summer and later to the Cleveland Browns, where he signed as a practice squad player in late August. Despite his efforts, the Browns released Brightwell on October 29, which opened the door for his subsequent signing by the Bengals.
The Bengals’ Tactical Roster Changes
The Bengals' decision to bring in Brightwell comes at a time when their backfield depth is being tested due to injuries. Zack Moss, a key player, is currently sidelined with a neck injury and is on injured reserve. In response, the Bengals have been active in reshaping their roster, acquiring Khalil Herbert from the Chicago Bears to bolster their running game. Moreover, the team has shown interest in other seasoned players, having conducted workouts with veteran running back Leonard Fournette.
A Glance at Leonard Fournette's Career
Leonard Fournette's name is notable in NFL circles, having been drafted fourth overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars from LSU. His time in the NFL has been marked by impressive achievements, including amassing over 1,300 yards from scrimmage in two separate seasons, with a peak performance of 1,674 yards in 2019. Fournette’s versatility was further highlighted during his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he played a significant role in their Super Bowl LV victory.
Despite his accomplishments, Fournette has faced his share of transitions. He was waived by the Jaguars in the summer of 2020, and in late October of the previous season, he found himself on the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad. He made appearances in two games with the Bills, contributing 40 rushing yards on 12 carries. His career stats reflect his impact on the field, with 4,518 rushing yards, 34 touchdowns, and 312 catches for 2,219 yards, alongside seven touchdowns receiving.
What Brightwell Brings to the Bengals
For the Bengals, adding a player like Brightwell to their practice squad provides them with flexibility and potential upside. Although he has yet to make a significant mark in the league, his versatility and perseverance through injuries make him a valuable asset. The ongoing roster adjustments demonstrate the Bengals' proactive approach in ensuring they have a robust lineup capable of handling the rigors of an NFL season.
In conclusion, as the Bengals integrate Brightwell into their framework, they join several other teams striving to find the right mix of talent to propel them through the season. Whether Brightwell will see the field with meaningful playing time in Cincinnati remains to be seen, but his journey reflects the dynamic and challenging nature of professional football.