Multiple teams have called on Bengals running back Giovani Bernard (Twitter link via NFL.com’s Tom Pelissero). The Bengals are seeking a restructuring of Bernard’s contract, but if they can’t come to terms, Bernard could wind up in a different uniform this year.
[RELATED: Bengals To Sign Ricardo Allen]
Bernard, 30 in November, still profiles as one of the league’s best pass-catching tailbacks. Last year, he managed 47 catches for 355 yards and three receiving touchdowns — his best line since 2017. Since 2013, Bernard has reeled in 342 grabs for 2,867 yards, good for an 8.4 yards per catch average.
The Bengals recently re-upped Samaje Perine, a sign that Bernard could be pushed out by the only NFL team he’s ever known. Currently, Bernard has one year left on his deal with $3.7MM in base salary and a $4.76MM cap hit. By trading or releasing him, the Bengals would save $4.1MM against the cap versus $667K in dead money.
Bernard and his soft hands should draw plenty of interest, but the Bengals may want to get a deal done before suitors find an alternative, like free agent running back Duke Johnson.
Sign the man for his mustache alone.
It’s both extremely impressive and looks wholly like he’s 15 and wearing a fake to pass as 21
Ah! Castro Street in the 70’s.
Would hate to see him go as he’s been a very productive player … I could see him in Denver, Chargers, Cardinals or Tampa …