In this episode of "In the Trenches with Dave Lapham," former NFL offensive lineman and Bengals analyst Dave Lapham delivers an in-depth breakdown of the Cincinnati Bengals' offseason plans, focusing on free agency, roster construction, and the team's approach to managing the salary cap. Lapham dives into the Bengals' strategy, emphasizing their focus on versatility, responsible spending, and avoiding the pitfalls of dead money.

Lapham begins by highlighting the Bengals' key re-signings, including Mike Gesicki, BJ Hill, and Cody Ford. He emphasizes these players' versatility, noting that they can play multiple positions and contribute in various ways on the field. Lapham points out that re-signing these players allows the Bengals to maintain continuity and familiarity within their system.

The discussion then shifts to the Bengals' approach to free agency, with Lapham analyzing the team's signings and releases. He notes that the Bengals have been active in retaining their own players and adding depth to their roster. He also discusses the challenges of managing the salary cap, particularly when it comes to signing high-profile players like Tee Higgins, Ja'Marr Chase, and Trey Hendrickson, in addition to Joe Burrow's existing contract.

Lapham delves into the intricacies of contract structures, explaining how the Bengals prioritize upfront payment to players and structuring contracts to avoid dead money. He contrasts this approach with that of other teams, such as the Cleveland Browns, which have struggled with salary cap issues due to large contracts with significant dead money implications.

The episode also explores the Bengals' needs on both sides of the ball. Lapham discusses the importance of strengthening the defensive line and finding a replacement for Alex Cappa at the guard position. He mentions several potential free agent targets and discusses the team's options for filling these needs.

Lapham emphasizes that the Bengals are committed to building a competitive team while being fiscally responsible. He highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy salary cap and avoiding the boom-and-bust cycles that can plague teams that overspend or mismanage their finances.

The discussion concludes with Lapham discussing the importance of team chemistry and the desire of players like Mike Gesicki to play alongside Joe Burrow and the Bengals' talented receiving corps. He notes that the opportunity to compete for a Super Bowl and be part of a winning culture can be a significant factor in players' decisions, even if it means taking a slightly smaller contract.

This episode provides valuable insights into the Bengals' off-season strategy and approach to building a sustainable, competitive team. Dave Lapham's expertise and analysis offer fans a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the Bengals as they navigate the complexities of NFL free agency and roster construction.

In The Trenches with Dave Lapham is presented by First Star Logistics.

🏈 Dive deep into the Cincinnati Bengals' personnel strategies with senior executive Trey Brown! 🏈

Join us as we unpack an exclusive interview with Trey Brown, the Bengals' Senior Personnel Executive, who gives us an inside look at evaluating talent, navigating free agency, and the NFL Draft process. Learn what it takes to build a winning roster in the National Football League.

This is a MUST-WATCH for any Bengals fan and NFL enthusiast!

In this video, we cover:

Evaluating Personnel: What scouts look for when assessing players. Cincinnati Bengals Roster: From unrestricted to restricted free agents.

NFL Combine & Draft: How teams prepare and what to look for. General Manager Potential: Insights into Brown's career and potential future role.

Key Highlights: Hear Trey Brown discuss the Bengals' strategy.

Discover how the Bengals stay competitive in the player acquisition landscape.

We want to thank Trey Brown for 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! As always Who Dey! 

Want to win great prizes from First Star Logistics during the Bengals season? During the 2024 Cincinnati Bengals season, First Star Logistics will give away some great and unique prizes. Follow @FirstStarLog, @DLInTheTrenches, and @JoeGoodberry for details each week on how you can win.

Get ready for an insider's look at the NFL Combine and the upcoming draft! Join Dave Lapham as he sits down with the renowned football analyst Charles Davis (CBS, NFL Network, SiriusXM NFL Radio) to dissect everything Combine Week, plus the future of the Cincinnati Bengals as they look to keep Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Trey Hendrickson all happy.

In this in-depth conversation, Charles shares his expert observations on the prospects, insights into how the Combine is evolving, and thoughts on the future of the NFL and the Bengals. He emphasizes that experience is back in play.

Here are a few of the key topics they discuss:

Combine Evolution: A look at how the NFL combine has morphed over the years and the importance of recognizing the experiences the athletes bring

Prospect Analysis: Charles Davis shares his perspective on which players stood out at the Combine and which ones should be watched. What are teams really going for?

Team Strategies: How front offices, coaches, and owners use the Combine as a way to work out strategies for the offseason

The Future of the NFL: Charles shares what he learned during Combine Week and what it means for the league's future. What's in store for the 2025 season?

Bengals Roster: Charles breaks down the team's future and the decisions the front office needs to make if they want to return to the Super Bowl during the Joe Burrow era.

Don't miss this engaging and informative interview with one of the most respected voices in football. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the inner workings of the NFL, you'll find plenty to chew on in this episode of In The Trenches with Dave Lapham, presented by First Star Logistics.!

Get an insider's perspective on the Cincinnati Bengals' draft for 2025 with this exclusive interview featuring Bengals legend Dave Lapham and former Bengals safety and NFL analyst Solomon Wilcots!

Join Dave and Solomon on In The Trenches with Dave Lapham, presented by First Star Logistics, as they examine the upcoming NFL Draft. They dissect key positions that the Bengals need and identify potential prospects who could make an immediate impact. From reinforcing the offensive and defensive lines to adding explosive playmakers, they explore the team's priorities and the overall depth of the draft class.

Solomon, a former NFL safety and award-winning broadcaster, shares his expert analysis of the top safeties in the draft, including Xavier Watts from Notre Dame. He breaks down their strengths, weaknesses, and potential fit with the Bengals' defense under new Defensive Coordinator Al Golden. Learn why Solomon believes Watts' football IQ, versatility, and disciplined approach make him a perfect match for Zac Taylor's vision.

Dave and Solomon also discuss:

The importance of drafting players with a high football IQ and a strong work ethic, echoing the principles of legendary Bengals coach Paul Brown.

The depth of the offensive line and defensive line classes highlights potential gems in rounds 2 through 6.

The strength of the running back and tight end pools and how the Bengals might look to add depth at those positions.

The impact of Al Golden's coaching philosophy and how it could transform the Bengals' defense.

Recounts Wilcots interview of Deion Sanders years ago at Reds spring training that saved his broadcasting career, and interviewing Shedeur Sanders, one of the top quarterbacks in this draft, on why he decided not to workout at the NFL Combine.

Whether you're a die-hard Bengals fan or just a football lover, this interview is packed with valuable insights, draft analysis, and behind-the-scenes stories you won't want to miss. 

Subscribe now for exclusive content and stay up-to-date with the latest Bengals news and analysis!

Tune in now and get the inside scoop on how the Cincinnati Bengals plan to build a championship contender through the 2025 NFL Draft!

Dive deep into the insights of Cincinnati Bengals Wide Receivers Coach Troy Walters in this exclusive interview with Dave Lapham during NFL Combine Week! Coach Walters, a former Indianapolis Colts standout and a highly respected figure in the NFL, shares his unique perspective on player development, team dynamics, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.

We want to thank Coach Walters for 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! As always Who Dey! 

Want to win great prizes from First Star Logistics during the Bengals season? During the 2025 Cincinnati Bengals season, First Star Logistics will give away some great and unique prizes. Follow @FirstStarLog, @DLInTheTrenches, and @JoeGoodberry for details each week on how you can win.

Get ready to dive deeply into the Cincinnati Bengals' new defensive strategy! In this must-watch episode of In the Trenches with Dave Lapham, presented by First Star Logistics, with a sit down with the Bengals' newly appointed defensive coordinator, the brilliant Al Golden! 

Discover his vision for the defense, his insights into the upcoming NFL Draft, and his plan to conquer the tough AFC North. Buckle up, Bengals fans, because this is your inside look!

Welcome to In the Trenches with Dave Lapham! Your premier source for Cincinnati Bengals information, in-depth analysis, and exclusive interviews. Join Bengals legend Dave Lapham as he dives deep into the Xs and Os, bringing you the stories and perspectives you won't find anywhere else.

First Star Logistics proudly presents In the Trenches with Dave Lapham. Thanks to their fantastic support, we can offer exclusive interviews and insights on the Bengals. You can check out First Star Logistics for all your supply chain management needs.

We're honored to welcome Al Golden back to the show this week. Coach Golden brings a wealth of experience to Cincinnati, having served as an assistant coach, head coach, and defensive coordinator in college football and the National Football League. He also brings a wide perspective that allows him to understand exactly what is expected to be great. Known for his disciplined approach, organized schemes, and collaborative leadership, Coach Golden's arrival in Cincinnati has sparked excitement among fans and analysts alike.

In this episode, Dave Lapham dives deep with Coach Golden, exploring key topics including:

Golden's Defensive Philosophy: What core principles will guide the Bengals' defense under his leadership? How will his approach differ from previous seasons? What can Bengal fans expect?

Building a Culture of Success: Coach Golden focuses on creating a strong team culture, emphasizing discipline, communication, and a commitment to excellence. Learn how he plans to instill these values within the Bengals' defensive unit.

The NFL Draft & Talent Acquisition: Coach Golden shares his insights into the upcoming NFL Draft, highlighting potential targets and discussing the importance of identifying players who fit the Bengals' defensive scheme and culture. What are his plans on the defensive side for Free Agency?

Player Development & Versatility: Discover Coach Golden's approach to developing players, emphasizing position versatility and maximizing each player's strengths.

This interview offers a detailed look into Al Golden's vision for the Bengals' defense. Coach Golden emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded approach, combining sound fundamentals with innovative schemes. He is a strong proponent of building an adaptable and aggressive defense capable of dictating terms to opposing offenses.

He also emphasizes developing players to their full potential rather than trying to fit square pegs into round holes. This approach allows the team to utilize each player’s unique abilities.

Golden is also a stickler for horizontal depth where the player can handle multiple positions, and the scheme will adapt to that particular player.

Coach Golden's experience at Notre Dame, including their impressive 13-game winning streak and appearance in the National Championship game, demonstrates his ability to lead a team to success. The interview highlights his leadership skills, strategic thinking, and passion for the game.

Subscribe! Don't miss out on future episodes of In the Trenches with Dave Lapham! Subscribe to our channel now for more Bengals content.

Like & Comment! What are your thoughts on Coach Golden's vision for the Bengals' defense? Leave a comment below and share your predictions for the upcoming season!

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Thanks for watching In the Trenches with Dave Lapham! We appreciate your support and look forward to bringing you more Bengals content throughout the offseason and the 2025 season. Stay tuned for more updates, analysis, and interviews!

Get an exclusive peek behind the scenes of the NFL Combine with Jerry Montgomery, the new defensive line coach for the Cincinnati Bengals! In this insightful interview from "In The Trenches with Dave Lapham," brought to you by First Star Logistics, Coach Montgomery shares his firsthand experiences navigating the whirlwind of the combine and building a championship-caliber team.

Coach Montgomery dives deep into the critical tasks that consume his days, from evaluating college talent and veteran free agents to conducting meetings with the Bengals coaching staff to assemble the team's playbook for the upcoming season. With the entire NFL descending upon Indianapolis, time management is of the essence. He reveals how he prioritizes these responsibilities while balancing his family commitments.

Key Topics Discussed:

The Combine Experience: Coach Montgomery provides a detailed account of his activities at the NFL Combine, including player evaluations, meetings with agents, and strategy sessions with the Bengals coaching staff.

Evaluating Talent: He discusses his approach to scouting college prospects and veteran free agents, emphasizing the importance of game tape and combined performance. He also stresses the significance of identifying versatile players who can fill multiple roles on the defensive line.

Defensive Scheme and Philosophy: Coach Montgomery shares his insights on the Bengals' defensive scheme under defensive coordinator Al Golden. He highlights Golden's collaborative approach and his willingness to listen to input from the coaching staff.

The Importance of Team Chemistry: He underscores the need for a strong locker room and the ability to mentor young players, especially those with potential off-field concerns.

Balancing Work and Family: Coach Montgomery candidly discusses the challenges of juggling his demanding coaching career with his responsibilities as a husband and father.

Resiliency and Adaptability: With his experience as a player and a coach, he highlights the importance of these traits in navigating the NFL's unpredictable world.

Insights into the Bengals:

Coach Montgomery praises the current Bengals roster, noting that he hopes to retain key pieces from last season. He also mentions his communications with current players, indicating his commitment to building relationships and setting expectations.

He emphasizes the importance of the offensive and defensive lines.

He shares his perspective on the Bengals' upcoming schedule, including his familiarity with the New England Patriots and New York Jets, having coached against them in recent seasons.

First Star Logistics:

We would also like to thank First Star Logistics for helping make this interview possible. Without them, we would not have been able to bring you interviews like these!

Whether you're an NFL fan, a coach, or simply interested in leadership and team building, this interview with Jerry Montgomery offers a unique and valuable perspective. You will gain insights into the complex process of creating a winning formula in the NFL while learning about the challenges and rewards of life as a coach.

Subscribe to "In The Trenches with Dave Lapham," hit the like button, and visit the First Star Media Group YouTube channel for exclusive content and special giveaways. Don't miss this opportunity to get closer to the game and learn from one of the NFL's up-and-coming coaching talents!

Former Bengals and NFL Offensive line Coach Jim McNally joins us today on In the Trenches with Dave Lapham to discuss how the Bengals need to dominate in the trenches if they want to return to competing in the AFC.

Coach McNally has decades of NFL experience including coaching Lap when he played for the Bengals and coaching the Bengal's new offensive line coach Scott Peters when Peters played with the New York Giants. McNally believes Coach Peters is one of the best young NFL coaches in the league and can't be more excited to see what he does with our offensive line in 2025. 

How do you feel about new offensive line coach Scott Peters? 

Should the Bengals add to their offensive line in free agency or the NFL draft? 

We want to thank Coach McNally for 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!

Want to win great prizes from First Star Logistics during the Bengals season? During the 2024 Cincinnati Bengals season, First Star Logistics will give away some great and unique prizes. Follow @FirstStarLog, @DLInTheTrenches, and @JoeGoodberry for details each week on how you can win. Also, watch the “NEW” Jake & Joe Bengals Postgame Show on the First Star Media Group YouTube channel. 

Bengal's Director of Player Performance Joey Boese joins us today on In the Trenches with Dave Lapham to discuss the Bengals new coaching additions that will bring a much-needed new spark to the Bengals in 2025.

Joey is a unique person in the Bengals organization as he works with all the players equally, compared to the position coaches who only coach their set players. Joey gets to know each player firsthand and forms a training plan for them for the off-season and during the season. 

We want to thank Joey for 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!

Want to win great prizes from First Star Logistics during the Bengals season? During the 2024 Cincinnati Bengals season, First Star Logistics will give away some great and unique prizes. Follow @FirstStarLog, @DLInTheTrenches, and @JoeGoodberry for details each week on how you can win. Also, watch the “NEW” Jake & Joe Bengals Postgame Show on the First Star Media Group YouTube channel. 

As a former NFL safety, Jordan Kovacs understands the mentality of both players and coaches. After his first season as the Cincinnati Bengals' secondary/safeties coach, Kovacs has been retained by new defensive coordinator Al Golden. 

While grateful for the opportunity that Lou Anarumo and Zac Taylor gave him, he's also excited for Golden's return to the staff and the additions of linebackers coach Mike Hodges and defensive line coach Jerry Montgomery.

Kovacs returns to In The Trenches with Dave Lapham, presented by First Star Logistics, to discuss the new coaching additions and what he expects from the Bengals' defense, including Jordan Battle, Geno Stone, and more.