3 Bengals roster bubble players the Steelers should target
By Andrew Falce
Steelers should target Fred Johnson
A name that should ring a bell for Steelers fans, former linemen Fred Johnson, whom the team signed as an undrafted free agent and had high hopes for, was poached by the Bengals during his rookie season. He has gone on to play in 18 total games over the past two seasons as well as recording seven starts. No, his play hasn’t been elite, but he has been a steady and youthful option that could still be a viable reserve.
One of the main issues with Johnson’s play is that the Bengals tried using him on the left side. While he has the size to play there, the Steelers were keeping him mostly at right tackle and along the interior to minimize his athletic weaknesses. The Bengals, lacking options along their line, were forced to play him at a position he isn’t best suited for. That explains pretty well why his PFF score was only a 48.4 last season.
If he ends up getting cut due to the Bengals line numbers increasing in the offseason, a reunion with the Steelers would be a logical move. Johnson could be a guard/tackle capable player and provide some more experience along this line. This line is almost entirely new and has some unproven players on it, so adding as many backup options as possible is a sound move.
Must Read. 6 young Steelers you have to keep an eye on in training camp. light
The Steelers will be looking to add some more depth players to their roster once cutdown day occurs. While the Bengals aren’t flush with options available to them, there are a few names that make sense for the team to target assuming the Bengals part ways. Keep an eye on these three current Bengals who could join the Steelers if they are cut at the end of training camp.