The Cincinnati Bengals officially release former first-rounder Sheldon Rankins as of this posting today who now becomes a free agent. According to the breaking news, the Bengals are moving on from Rankins which saves them $9.6 million in salary cap. To no surprise, the Bengals are attempting to free up as much money to extend other defensive talent like Trey Hendrickson who’s already on the brink of a trade request. Rankins only played in seven games last season so he was more of a liability since he’s been facing an illness.
Originally selected in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft, the former Louisville product was hoping to provide a huge boost for the team’s defensive trenches but injuries and illnesses kept compiling since his arrival. Rankins was more of a “bust” than being a capable defender when trying to stop the opposing offense so it’s not surprising the Bengals are moving on. However, head coach Zac Taylor did say he was expecting Rankins while he was out but he never did and now the Bengals are officially heading in a different direction. While they release Rankins, they have several contracts to worry about extending as they’re in for a long ride.
Bengals Release Former First Rounder Sheldon Rankins, May Have Robust Market? – 5 Team Fits Who Could Take a Chance
Next Possible Fits
New Orleans Saints
The Saints may not have the cap space to make massive moves but a reunion with Sheldon Rankins isn’t out of the question. After this offseason, they could be without Chase Young and Cameron Jordan so any help can retool the defensive line. Rankins isn’t going to overhaul the entire defense but he could be a cost-effective piece that can get after the quarterback in critical moments as long as he stays healthy.
Carolina Panthers
Derrick Brown will make his return after suffering a gruesome season-ending injury, the Panthers need some help on the defensive front. Last season, they spent the majority of it rebuilding an offense for quarterback Bryce Young, but it’s time to improve its defense. Shaq Thompson and Jadeveon Clowney are two cap casualties and they could be released before the new season starts. Rankins might be a defensive tackle but he could add some type of boost for the entire defensive line to provide some balance to relieve the stress from Brown.
Washington Commanders
The Commanders did well for themselves to build a capable offense for second-year quarterback Jayden Daniels. However, the defense needs a boost as the team has a plan to reconstruct the entire defensive line. If that’s the case, they could wind up releasing Jonathan Allen this offseason since he hasn’t been as productive in recent memory and battling injuries. Rankins is no different but they could use him as a rotational pass rusher to fill up the depth chart as a dependable backup option.
Los Angeles Chargers
Nobody in this league loves playing a physical defensive game more than head coach Jim Harbaugh. If anything, he could bring out the best in Rankins since the Chargers had one of the best defenses last season. They did that with free agent Poona Ford and could very well succeed under Jesse Minter’s mindset.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens are getting younger in the defensive front area other than Nnamdi Madubuike. Travis Jones and Broderick Washington are two dependable options but they could use some extra assistance. Rankins could be a liability but they might benefit from his experience as a mentor.
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