Cincinnati Bengals Special Teams coach Darrin Simmons joins us today on In the Trenches with Dave Lapham to discuss the ups and downs of his special teams during the 2023 season and how the Bengals will fill their weaknesses in the upcoming offseason. 

The Bengals had a lot of new changes on special teams for the 2023 season. The two biggest changes were two rookies; Brad Robbins and Charlie Jones starting as punter and returner. Jones made his impact quite fast as he had his first NFL touchdown on a punt return in week 2 against the Baltimore Ravens. A return that was huge for the Bengals at the time and kept them alive in the game. Robbins was drafted in the 6th round of the 2023 NFL draft and had high expectations being one of the best punters in college in his final season. It was an up-and-down season for Robbins who finished in the middle of the pack in most statistics and near last in average yards per punt (44 yards). 

Simmons and Lap also talk about how the Bengals will address their biggest weaknesses going into the 2024 season. The biggest question is around wide receiver Tee Higgins, will the Bengals franchise tag Tee, extend him, or let him walk in free agency? Another important position is solidifying the right tackle position with the expected departure of Jonah Williams. In one of the most important offseasons in Bengals history, it will be interesting to see what the Bengals do. 

We want to thank Coach Simmons for always being a fantastic guest and for joining us today on In the Trenches with Dave Lapham brought to you by First Star Logistics. We also look forward to growing our new central channel, First Star Media Group, and having you fans follow us along the ride. A lot more content is coming soon so definitely hit that subscribe button so you never miss one of our uploads!