Bengals fans turn the spotlight to "more pressing needs" to reject the idea of Ashton Jeanty's move to Cincinnati
Ashton Jeanty has been the talk of the town this college football season. The Boise State Broncos running back is in contention to win the Heisman Trophy and is projected to go as one of the top picks in next year's NFL draft.
While some Cincinnati Bengals fans on social media believe that Jeanty's addition to their team would add a different dynamism to their offense, others pointed out that the franchise should instead focus on other areas that need strengthening.
Fans on X highlighted that the Bengals need to target a top defensive player since the team has been struggling to win games with their current backline this season.
"As this is very true, Jeanty won’t stop the opposing team from scoring 30+ every single game," one tweeted.
"More pressing needs than a rb," another wrote.
"You misspelled Kaleb Johnson. Give us a defensive weapon in the 1st," tweeted a user.
The Bengals (4-7) have conceded 296 points, which is the second-most in the AFC conference after Week 11. Others also pointed out the glaring issues for Cincinnati.
"Nope. Great player, but he’s not who the Bengals need with a premium pick. iDL, Edge, CB, iOL, WR. Those are the needs." a fan added.
"Would be fun but compared to other positions at need would probably not happen," wrote one.
"Offense isn't the issue." tweeted a user.
The Bengals are likely to miss qualifying for the playoffs this season, barring an incredible run in their final stretch of games. However, their offense has not been the problem.
Star quarterback Joe Burrow has racked up a league-leading 3,028 yards, and a league-leading 27 touchdowns with four interceptions while also rushing for one touchdown. The Bengals' defense, on the other hand, has not been up to the mark.
Hence, many believe that adding an offensive weapon like Ashton Jeanty might not give Cincinnati the balance on either side of the gridiron. Nonetheless, the Boise State running is having a season for the ages.
A look at Ashton Jeanty's stats this season
Ashton Jeanty has recorded 1,893 yards and 26 touchdowns on 256 carries this season. The Boise State running back has also added 98 yards on 17 receptions and caught a touchdown across 10 games.
Jeanty has rushed for 100+ yards in each game for No. 12 Boise State (9-1, 6-0 Mountain West) this season. It will be interesting to see if he can continue that streak with two more regular season games remaining.