Podcast appearances and mentions of mike petraglia

Joe Burrow believes the Bengals have assembled a championship-caliber roster, and now he's making sure everyone in the locker room feels the same sense of urgency. That was one of the biggest takeaways from Burrow's final media session before the Bengals broke for the summer following mandatory minicamp. Local 12 digital sports columnist and editor Richard Skinner and Mike Petraglia from CLNS Media discussed on their recent podcast how Burrow appeared more confident, relaxed and focused than he has in recent offseasons, a reflection of both the roster Cincinnati has built and the expectations that come with it. Burrow told reporters Wednesday that he's tried to become a tougher leader this offseason, how it's out of his comfort zone but somewhere that he's improving. Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher later offered a different description, calling Burrow "blunt" when giving feedback to his teammates. Burrow's comments came as the Bengals wrapped up an offseason program that coach Zac Taylor considered productive enough to cancel the final two scheduled practice days of minicamp. Taylor's decision effectively gave players an early start to their summer break, something Skinner viewed as a reward for a roster that showed up, stayed healthy and embraced the offseason program. "I think that's kind of a little pat on the back to say, 'Yeah, you guys put in a lot of good work,'" Skinner said on the podcast. The Bengals also avoided the contract disputes and distractions that dominated previous offseasons. Unlike last year, when first-round pick Shemar Stewart had not yet signed, the team's focus remained almost entirely on football. That focus appears to start with Burrow. Both Skinner and Petraglia noted Burrow repeatedly stayed after practice throughout the offseason to throw extra passes and work on mechanics. Even after minicamp concluded, Burrow spent additional time throwing and lifting weights. "I just think that he realizes that this is the time to win now," Skinner said. "This is the best roster they've had since the 2021 and 2022 teams, and you don't want to waste it." Burrow echoed that belief Wednesday when he compared his feelings about the 2026 Bengals to the confidence he felt before LSU's national championship season in 2019. "Given how the Bengals have restructured the roster, I don't see how going into the season, going into training camp in late July and August, how it could be set up any better," said Petraglia. Perhaps the most revealing moment came when Burrow discussed pressure. The Bengals enter the season with expectations as high as they've been since their Super Bowl run in 2021, and Burrow made it clear he's embracing them. Skinner said Burrow's demeanor during a 25-minute media session reflected a player who believes the Bengals are positioned to contend immediately. "He looked about as relaxed and confident as I've seen him in a couple of years," Petraglia said. "I just got this quiet sense of confidence from Burrow that he's finally going into a summer break of four or five weeks before they reconvene in late July, that he has a better idea of what this team could really do this year." The Bengals report to training camp in late July, carrying the weight of heightened expectations and a quarterback who appears eager to embrace them.

The Cincinnati Bengals created salary cap space this week by restructuring quarterback Joe Burrow's contract, a move that longtime observers say reflects an unusually aggressive offseason for the franchise. According to multiple reports, the restructuring frees up approximately $10 million in salary cap space and comes after the Bengals acquired All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence in a blockbuster trade. The move is notable because Cincinnati has historically avoided restructuring contracts to push salary cap charges into future seasons. “I think one of the biggest things for me, quite frankly, is that it shows this continues to be an atypical offseason,” Local 12 digital sports columnist and editor Richard Skinner said to Mike Petraglia of CLNS Media. “From trading for Dexter Lawrence to overspending at a couple of positions of need, it continues that trend.” While some of the newly created cap space helps account for Lawrence's contract, Skinner said the move also gives the Bengals flexibility to address other roster needs, including adding a veteran linebacker or offensive tackle. The restructuring came just minutes before the Bengals announced the signing of second-round draft pick Cashius Howell, officially putting all seven members of the team's 2026 draft class under contract. Unlike a pay cut, a restructuring converts salary into a signing bonus that can be spread across future years of the contract. “They did the best of both worlds,” Skinner said. “It gives you the flexibility to still add to the roster today without just kicking the can way down the road.” Petraglia noted the Bengals could have freed up nearly twice as much cap space but chose a more measured approach. “By converting only enough salary to free up the $10 million, I think the Bengals showed a layer of restraint,” Petraglia said. “It's the best of both worlds for the Bengals in this particular case.” The discussion also highlighted several emerging storylines from organized team activities. One is veteran safety Kyle Dugger, who joined Cincinnati after stops with New England and Pittsburgh. Skinner described Dugger as a potentially valuable veteran presence and a candidate to contribute in defensive packages featuring three safeties. The pair also discussed rookie linebacker Boye Mafe, whose versatility could allow defensive coordinator Al Golden to deploy more varied fronts featuring players who can rush the passer or drop into coverage. Both agreed that Lawrence remains one of the most intriguing additions heading into training camp. “I cannot wait to see Dexter Lawrence line up against somebody else,” Skinner said. “He's just going to overwhelm some people at times.” Mandatory minicamp begins next week, when coaches and media will get a clearer picture of how the Bengals' revamped roster fits together heading into the 2026 season.

Jason Williams is in for Rocky. The guys talk to policy strategist Dan Varroney about the economy. Franchise consultant Nick Neonakis joins the show to talk about the spate of chain restaurant closings. Our IT expert Dave Hatter joins the show to talk about why he won't travel in a completely driverless vehicle. And they review the Reds lost weekend with Mike Petraglia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Williams is in for Rocky. The guys talk to policy strategist Dan Varroney about the economy. Franchise consultant Nick Neonakis joins the show to talk about the spate of chain restaurant closings. Our IT expert Dave Hatter joins the show to talk about why he won't travel in a completely driverless vehicle. And they review the Reds lost weekend with Mike Petraglia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Williams is in for Rocky. The guys talk to policy strategist Dan Varroney about the economy. Franchise consultant Nick Neonakis joins the show to talk about the spate of chain restaurant closings. Our IT expert Dave Hatter joins the show to talk about why he won't travel in a completely driverless vehicle. And they review the Reds lost weekend with Mike Petraglia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Petraglia reviews the Reds brutal loss to the Cardinals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Petraglia reviews the Reds brutal loss to the Cardinals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The sight of Bengals stars Ja'Marr Chase and DJ Turner at organized team activities this week is helping fuel the energy around a team that believes it has made major offseason upgrades, according to Local 12 Digital Sports Columnist and Editor Richard Skinner. Skinny joined Mike Petraglia of CLNS media for a podcast Wednesday and discussed how Chase, Turner and Tee Higgins all taking part in OTAs sends a message that the team is “all in” after an offseason that included a major addition on defense. “It adds energy and enthusiasm,” Skinner said of the attendance at the voluntary workouts. Turner, who is entering the final year of his contract, said he wanted to be present because he wants to be part of the team's new vibe. Skinner said Chase's appearance also stood out, even though the star receiver had previously suggested he would be present for mandatory minicamp. Higgins took part in some of the seven-on-seven work and made a highlight-reel catch over defensive back Dax Hill. The offseason additions on defense, including the trade for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, have raised expectations in Cincinnati, Skinner said, and the team's early workouts appear to reflect that confidence. Skinner also said the Bengals' OTAs are helping show how the team plans to use some of its personnel, including tight end Erick All, who is returning from serious knee injuries. Skinner said All moved well in drills and may be part of more two-tight-end sets if he remains healthy. The Bengals continue OTAs next week before moving into mandatory minicamp.

The Bengals announced five new nominees Wednesday for the team's Ring of Honor ballot, adding former stars Geno Atkins, Carlos Dunlap, A.J. Green, Leon Hall and Andrew Whitworth ahead of the 2026 voting process. The additions join returning nominees Jim Breech, James Brooks, Cris Collinsworth, David Fulcher, Max Montoya, Bob Trumpy and Reggie Williams on the 12-player ballot that will be voted on by season ticket members beginning June 1. During their latest podcast, Local 12 digital sports columnist and editor Richard Skinner and Mike Petraglia of CLNS Media discussed how the addition of several modern-era stars could split votes among newer candidates while longtime Bengals legends continue waiting for induction. Skinner said he believes Brooks and the late Trumpy remain deserving candidates, especially as the Bengals prepare to reduce future Ring of Honor classes from two annual inductees to one beginning in 2027. “James Brooks is honestly overdue,” Skinner said. The pair also discussed how several current Bengals players — including Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins — could eventually become future Ring of Honor candidates if the team breaks through with a Super Bowl title. Petraglia and Skinner also touched on the Bengals' unusually drama-free offseason, praising the organization's businesslike approach after major roster additions on defense and contract extensions for key offensive stars. The conversation also highlighted rookie defensive lineman Landon Robinson, with Skinner praising the former Navy standout's discipline, maturity and work ethic after recently graduating from the Naval Academy.

CINCINNATI (WKRC) - The Cincinnati Bengals' rookie class made an early impression during last week's minicamp, with first-year players showing both promise and areas for growth as the team transitions into the next phase of its offseason program. Rookie defensive end Cashius Howell stood out for his approach as much as his physical tools. Despite not yet signing his contract, Howell participated fully and emphasized his focus on football. “He looked the part and just how attentive he was really stood out,” Local 12 digital sports sports columnist and editor Richard Skinner said on the podcast with Mike Petraglia of CLNS Media. “He looked like a guy that really wanted to be coached.” Third-round pick Tacario Davis also drew attention — in part for his unusual build. The long, lanky cornerback has a notable wingspan that could translate into coverage advantages, though his frame remains a talking point early in camp. Seventh-round defensive lineman Landon Robinson, a Navy product, impressed with his size and strength. Skinner described him as “one giant slab,” noting his potential as a run-stuffer. While players with similar builds have not always succeeded at the NFL level, Robinson's background suggests a strong work ethic. “It's worth a seventh-round pick to find out,” Skinner said. “You're going to get the very best of him.” The Bengals appear focused on building depth along the defensive line, aiming to rotate players and wear down opposing offenses — a priority under defensive coordinator Al Golden. Offensively, fourth-round wide receiver Colbie Young remains a work in progress. Young showed inconsistency during early drills, including dropped passes, but his size — listed around 6-foot-4 — gives him a chance to develop into a downfield threat. “I want to see big plays from him,” Skinner said. “They need someone who can win 50-50 balls and stretch the field.” The rookie minicamp offered only a limited glimpse, consisting primarily of individual drills without full-team action. Still, the Bengals believe the class fits a broader plan focused on versatility and long-term development. That approach extends to the tight end position, where seventh-round pick Jack Endries could factor into future roster construction. With several veterans on short-term deals, the Bengals may be preparing for turnover at the position. The team now moves into Phase 2 of offseason workouts, which allows for on-field football activities without contact. Veterans are expected to gradually join the program, though attendance remains voluntary until mandatory minicamp in June. Star quarterback Joe Burrow has not yet participated in workouts, but Skinner downplayed any concern. “He's not missing anything,” Skinner said. “This is conditioning and light work. It's just not a big deal.” Attention will soon shift to the NFL schedule release, set for Thursday night. The Bengals are among teams that could be selected for an international game, with potential matchups involving Washington or Atlanta. For now, the focus remains on development — and early signs suggest the Bengals' latest draft class could provide both immediate depth and future impact.

Mike Petraglia is in for Lance. He reviews the Reds winless road trip. Trags talks with Alex Frank of Bearcast Media on the latest with Brendan Sorsby and what the fallout might be for UC. And Trags talks FCCincinnati with Laurel Pfahler of the Dayton Daily News.

Mike Petraglia is in for Lance. He reviews the Reds winless road trip. Trags talks with Alex Frank of Bearcast Media on the latest with Brendan Sorsby and what the fallout might be for UC. And Trags talks FCCincinnati with Laurel Pfahler of the Dayton Daily News.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Petraglia is in for Lance. He reviews the Reds winless road trip. Trags talks with Alex Frank of Bearcast Media on the latest with Brendan Sorsby and what the fallout might be for UC. And Trags talks FCCincinnati with Laurel Pfahler of the Dayton Daily News.

Mike Petraglia is in for Lance. He reviews the Reds winless road trip. Trags talks with Alex Frank of Bearcast Media on the latest with Brendan Sorsby and what the fallout might be for UC. And Trags talks FCCincinnati with Laurel Pfahler of the Dayton Daily News.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eddie and Rocky talk to Zach Wichter, Eric Conroy, Alex Stone, Mike Petraglia, and more on 700 WLW! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eddie and Rocky talk to Zach Wichter, Eric Conroy, Alex Stone, Mike Petraglia, and more on 700 WLW!

Eddie and Rocky talk to Zach Wichter, Eric Conroy, Alex Stone, Mike Petraglia, and more on 700 WLW! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eddie and Rocky talk to Zach Wichter, Eric Conroy, Alex Stone, Mike Petraglia, and more on 700 WLW!

While Ken is out, Mike steps behind the microphone to give you the latest on The Flying Pig Marathon, the Kentucky Derby, and the Cincinnati Reds. Tune in to win!

While Ken is out, Mike steps behind the microphone to give you the latest on The Flying Pig Marathon, the Kentucky Derby, and the Cincinnati Reds. Tune in to win!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony and Austin talk Reds and Bengals with Mike Petraglia from CLNS Media on ESPN 1530! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony and Austin talk with Mike Petraglia and Mo Egger, debate fiercely the presence of Joe Burrow at voluntary workouts, the woo, the wave, and more. Plus, the ascension of Elly De La Cruz, the Reds rising, and more on ESPN 1530! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony and Austin talk with Mike Petraglia. take your TalkBacks, and more on ESPN 1530! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eddie and Rocky talk to Mark Herrera, Mike Petraglia, Sasha Pezenik, and more on 700 WLW! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eddie and Rocky talk to Mark Herrera, Mike Petraglia, Sasha Pezenik, and more on 700 WLW!

Eddie and Rocky talk to Mark Herrera, Mike Petraglia, Sasha Pezenik, and more on 700 WLW!

Eddie and Rocky talk to Mark Herrera, Mike Petraglia, Sasha Pezenik, and more on 700 WLW! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bengals' 2026 NFL Draft reflected a clear strategy: build depth, target high-upside players and continue reshaping the roster around a strengthened defensive front. Cincinnati entered the draft without a first-round pick after trading for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, then used seven selections over the final two days. Local 12 digital sports columnist and editor Richard Skinner said the approach showed a focus on long-term development and roster balance. “I thought they did it. I thought it was really good,” Skinner said. “There was sound reasoning behind probably every pick.” The Bengals' top selections came on Day 2, when they drafted edge rusher Cashius Howell out of Texas A&M and cornerback Tacario Davis from Washington. Both are viewed as potential contributors, though Howell may begin as part of a deep rotation on the defensive line. “I like the player. I'm not so sure I love the pick,” Skinner said of Howell. “He's technically your fourth edge rusher at the moment.” The defensive line overhaul has been a central theme this offseason, with Cincinnati adding Lawrence, Boye Mafe and Jonathan Allen to create a deeper, more disruptive unit. "I think (the Bengals) got their value in Dexter Lawrence," said Mike Petraglia from CLNS Media. "I think that they addressed other things in this draft, in terms of their depth and the ability to have some added playmakers on defense. Looking back on it eight days later, I like the Dexter Lawrence move." The Bengals also addressed offensive line depth, selecting center Connor Lew in the fourth round and versatile lineman Brian Parker II in the sixth. “I think the value of this pick is just off the charts,” Skinner said of Lew, noting the 20-year-old's experience and upside. At wide receiver, Cincinnati added Colbie Young, a physically gifted prospect with limited college production. Skinner called the pick a traits-based gamble. “The traits are off the charts,” he said. “I just can't overlook the lack of production.” Day 3 selections focused on depth and developmental players, including tight end Jack Endries and Navy defensive tackle Landon Robinson. Skinner said Endries' competitive mindset stood out, recalling that the draftee said he would make every team that didn't draft him pay. Overall, Skinner graded the Bengals' draft an A-minus, citing a mix of immediate contributors and long-term prospects. "There is a high ceiling for all these guys. That's, I think the exciting part is these guys have a chance to, to take things to a whole different level," he said. "Literally every one of them, all the way down to, to Landon Robinson, the last pick they made at defensive tackle, there's a high ceiling for all these guys." "Here's another reason you get aggressive in free agency going into the draft," said Petraglia. "It allows you, I think, to take more chances on guys with higher ceilings, because if they don't work out, you do have, you address something else via free agency that presumably, uh, similar or the exact same position -- and I think the Bengals did that. I think they were more aggressive in free agency. They took a chance on higher end or guys with higher ceilings. Let's say that, put it that way. And I like that. I like that approach for a team that is trying to get more aggressive in that window with Joe Burrow." The Bengals may still look to add a veteran linebacker after the draft, as the position remains a question mark heading into the 2026 season.

Happy 1st Friday Edition of the Program!! Ohio State Games that matter most to us and the rivalries that might be going away. The schedule next season is tough, which games are we most excited for. The Browns with a mini-camp ahead of the NFL Draft. It was a heck of a night in the NBA. Ohio's MLB teams are having a season. Mike Vrabel sorta apologized for the Diana Russini incident. ESPN's Jake Trotter, Mike Petraglia, What's Up, Thing or Not a Thing, #Hey Guys, Your Officially Endorsed and 3 Things....

The Bengals' trade for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence reshaped both their roster and their draft plans, according to a discussion between Local 12 Digital Sports Columnist and Editor Richard Skinner and Mike Petraglia from CLNS Media. The Bengals sent the No. 10 overall pick in this year's NFL Draft to the New York Giants for Lawrence and then signed him to a one-year extension through 2028. Petraglia and Skinner said the move reflects both urgency and a correction to recent draft misses along the defensive line. Skinner said the deal should help take pressure off the rest of the defense. “He provides pressure in the pocket,” Skinner said. “He's going to create one-on-ones for Boye Mafe.” Petraglia and Skinner said Lawrence's presence should also help linebackers and edge rushers by drawing double teams inside. “That frees those guys up to see clearly and just to make more plays,” Petraglia said. They said the Bengals now appear likely to target cornerback, linebacker and interior offensive line depth on the draft's second day. With no fifth-round pick, they said the team may need to find a developmental center who can also play guard, noting Ted Karras is 33 and the backup options are thin. Skinner said the Bengals also may need to revisit Joe Burrow's contract to create more cap space after the Lawrence trade and earlier free-agent additions. Petraglia said the team's recent moves show a new level of urgency. “To their credit, they've pushed their way into doing that,” he said. “This is an all-in season.”

Eddie and Rocky talk to Jim Moehring, Mike Petraglia, Jordana Miller, and more on 700 WLW! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eddie and Rocky talk to Jim Moehring, Mike Petraglia, Jordana Miller, and more on 700 WLW!

Eddie and Rocky talk to Jim Moehring, Mike Petraglia, Jordana Miller, and more on 700 WLW! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eddie and Rocky talk to Jim Moehring, Mike Petraglia, Jordana Miller, and more on 700 WLW!

Lance previews the NFL Draft with Mike Petraglia of the Jungle Roar podcast. Lance says he's changed his mind about the ABS System. And the Masters began today in Augusta, Georgia. PGA Tour golfer and Cincinnati native Jim Hermann joins Lance to share his Masters' memories.

Lance previews the NFL Draft with Mike Petraglia of the Jungle Roar podcast. Lance says he's changed his mind about the ABS System. And the Masters began today in Augusta, Georgia. PGA Tour golfer and Cincinnati native Jim Hermann joins Lance to share his Masters' memories.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lance previews the NFL Draft with Mike Petraglia of the Jungle Roar podcast. Lance says he's changed his mind about the ABS System. And the Masters began today in Augusta, Georgia. PGA Tour golfer and Cincinnati native Jim Hermann joins Lance to share his Masters' memories.

Lance previews the NFL Draft with Mike Petraglia of the Jungle Roar podcast. Lance says he's changed his mind about the ABS System. And the Masters began today in Augusta, Georgia. PGA Tour golfer and Cincinnati native Jim Hermann joins Lance to share his Masters' memories.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lance talks to Mike Petraglia of the Jungle Roar podcast about the Bengals choices in the NFL Draft.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lance talks to Mike Petraglia of the Jungle Roar podcast about the Bengals choices in the NFL Draft.

Lance talks to Mike Petraglia of the Jungle Roar podcast about the Bengals choices in the NFL Draft.

Lance talks to Mike Petraglia of the Jungle Roar podcast about the Bengals choices in the NFL Draft.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bengals executive VP Katie Blackburn's decision to skip media availability at the NFL owners meetings became a talking point in Phoenix, where Local 12 digital sports columnist and editor Richard Skinner and Mike Petraglia of CLNS Media said the silence reflects a larger communication problem for Cincinnati. Skinner said the annual meetings matter because owners and coaches are available to the media and the league's competition committee votes on rule proposals. But he argued the Bengals' reluctance to make Blackburn available leaves fans without answers on offseason decisions. “The problem with a lot of Bengals fans with the ownership is there's no answer from ownership,” Skinner said. “I just don't understand why Katie or Troy (Blackburn) or somebody from ownership doesn't come forward and address it.” Petraglia agreed, saying the Bengals' public posture creates frustration because fans want to know why the team did not do more in free agency to help obvious roster needs. He pointed to moves such as signing Joe Flacco and other additions as insufficient compared with a more aggressive push for linebacker help. “At least with words, you could say, we do care,” Petraglia said. “Here's how we approached Joe Burrow (to restructure his contract), or here's why we didn't.” The two also discussed the Bengals' broader offseason messaging, saying the club's “all in” rhetoric did not match its moves. Skinner said the issue is not just the decisions themselves, but the optics and the lack of explanation. The conversation centered on a fan base that, in their view, wants more than silence when the team makes major personnel choices.

Local 12 digital sports columnist and editor Richard Skinner was joined by Mike Petraglia from CLNS Media to discuss recent happenings during the Cincinnati Bengals offseason, a month from the NFL Draft. Former Bengals linebacker Logan Wilson has retired at age 29, citing injuries and a diminished desire to continue playing. Wilson, a key contributor during Cincinnati's 2021 Super Bowl run, was known for two pivotal postseason plays: an interception that helped set up a game-winning field goal against Tennessee and a forced fumble that led to a touchdown in the AFC wild-card round the following season. Injuries significantly impacted Wilson's performance in recent years, limiting his speed and effectiveness. Despite his relatively short career peak, he was regarded as a reliable, well-prepared player and a strong presence in the locker room. The discussion also highlighted ongoing concerns about the Bengals' current linebacker group. Rookies Barrett Carter and Demetrius Knight Jr. have been identified by coaches as starters, but questions remain about their readiness. The team lacks a proven veteran presence at the position after missing opportunities in free agency. Criticism extended to the team's broader roster-building strategy, particularly its conservative approach to salary cap management and reluctance to restructure contracts. That approach may limit the team's ability to add experienced players and depth, raising concerns about repeating issues from last season. Additional roster needs include depth at cornerback, safety and wide receiver, with reliance on the draft viewed as a risky strategy for immediate improvement. The duo on the podcast also questioned quarterback Joe Burrow's decision to participate in an offseason flag football game, citing injury risk given his contract and injury history.

Local 12 digital sports columnist and editor Richard Skinner was joined by Mike Petraglia of CLNS Media to delve into the Cincinnati Reds ahead of Opening Day.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Local 12 digital sports columnist & editor Richard Skinner and Mike Petraglia from CLNS Media discuss whether the Cincinnati Bengals were winners or losers after the first week of NFL free agency, and discuss what the new players signed will offer the team.

The 2026 NFL league year and free agency signing period begins Wednesday, though teams were allowed to begin negotiating with agents at noon Monday during the league's legal tampering window. Local 12 digital sports columnist and editor Richard Skinner joined Mike Petraglia of CLNS Media to discuss what the Cincinnati Bengals should prioritize. They reviewed how the legal tampering period works, noting that while contracts cannot be signed until 4 p.m. Wednesday, most agreements reached beforehand are finalized once the new league year opens. They also discussed the importance of teams being salary cap compliant before free agency begins, often leading to trades, restructures and releases. Regarding the Bengals, Skinner and Petraglia noted the team has approximately $47 million in cap space after declining to franchise-tag Trey Hendrickson. They identified defensive tackle, edge rusher, safety and linebacker as major needs. Skinner suggested interior pass rush — potentially targeting a player such as John Franklin-Myers — should be a priority, along with signing a veteran safety and possibly drafting one early. At quarterback, they discussed reports that Joe Flacco would prefer a starting opportunity but could return as Joe Burrow's backup if necessary. Jake Browning was not tendered and is expected to become an unrestricted free agent, though a return remains possible. On offense, they emphasized the need for depth at swing tackle and wide receiver. While the starting offensive line stayed healthy last season, they cautioned against relying on similar durability again. Both agreed the Bengals must balance free agency spending carefully while using the draft to address remaining needs.

Chick Ludwig is in for Lance. He talks Reds baseball with Jeff Carr of the Reds Report. Mike Petraglia of CLNS Media joins Chick to talk about what's going on at the NFL Combine. And Chick goes Off the Beaten Path to get your stories of sneaking into a sporting event.

Chick Ludwig is in for Lance. He talks Reds baseball with Jeff Carr of the Reds Report. Mike Petraglia of CLNS Media joins Chick to talk about what's going on at the NFL Combine. And Chick goes Off the Beaten Path to get your stories of sneaking into a sporting event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.