Dan Pitcher is filled with enthusiasm about the group of tight ends.
The Bengals’ offensive coordinator is considering using the 12 formation more frequently.
By Dadio Makdook @dadiodefacto | Jun 22, 2024, 12:00pm EDT | 1 Comment / 1 New
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Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com queried Dan Pitcher about the new additions to the offense and how the first-year offensive coordinator, formerly the QB coach for the Cincinnati Bengals, plans to adjust schematically.
Pitcher expressed excitement about several aspects, particularly highlighting the tight ends. Here’s his statement:
“I’m very excited about our tight-end room. They had an excellent spring. Tanner [Hudson], Mike [Gesicki], and Drew [Sample] are the three experienced guys in the room. They all know who they are, are comfortable in their own skin, and understand how to play the game. They wouldn’t have stayed in the league for six or seven years each if that wasn’t the case, and they all have very promising football ahead of them. I’m enthusiastic about that group.”
This could imply an increased presence of multiple tight ends on the field. Pitcher added, “Could this mean we’ll use more 12 personnel than we have in the past? Perhaps.”
Other notable points from the discussion:
Pitcher clarified that while the offense won’t undergo drastic changes, there have been some adjustments and renewed emphasis on certain areas that may have been less prioritized previously.
Rookie wide receiver Jermaine Burton from Alabama Crimson Tide has made a strong impression. Pitcher commented, “He’s very talented with some of the most reliable hands and ball skills I’ve seen. A young player who attacks the football aggressively yet catches it softly. He possesses excellent body control and agility… He’s putting in the effort and will only improve… He has a lot of potential for growth and he’s approaching it in a way that will lead him to where we need him to be…”
We have six guys who can rotate there and each brings specific strengths,” Pitcher noted.
Regarding Zack Moss potentially filling the void left by Samaje Perine, Pitcher remarked, “Zack brings many positive attributes we admired in Samaje. He’s a physical runner who is tough to bring down. He can contribute in protection, the passing game, and as a runner. We’re very pleased to have him.”