The Cincinnati Bengals are set to overhaul their offseason approach under head coach Zac Taylor, aiming to address the team's slow starts in recent seasons. The coaching staff plans to ramp up intensity during spring workouts, focusing on football IQ and situational awareness to better prepare players ahead of training camp. Taylor emphasized the importance of getting players involved in understanding the playbook and fostering team camaraderie.

Key changes include an increase in playing time for starters during preseason games, aiming to alleviate the issues that have plagued the Bengals, particularly their 0-3 start last season. The new strategy seeks to balance injury prevention while ensuring players are game-ready, a shift from prior, less impactful offseason practices.

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor remains optimistic about safety Geno Stone, despite concerns surrounding his performance last season. Stone, who was brought in to replace Jessie Bates, faced challenges but showed improvement as the 2023 season progressed. Taylor emphasized that the defensive unit's tackling needs to enhance and indicated that they'll continue to develop Stone while also increasing Jordan Battle's role in the lineup. After a rough start, the defense began to adapt, aided by a simpler scheme and a more manageable schedule. The Bengals are banking on Stone's development as they navigate coaching changes within the team.

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a pivotal offseason, particularly at the guard position, following the release of Alex Cappa. The team re-signed Cody Ford and retained Cordell Volson, who will be under competition for starting roles alongside veteran Lucas Patrick, signed to a one-year deal. Head coach Zac Taylor has hinted that the Bengals will look to the NFL Draft to address these needs and emphasize the importance of finding suitable linemen who can be developed over time, as they have struggled with the offensive line in recent years.

Despite Joe Burrow leading one of the NFL's most prolific passing offenses last season, the Bengals' interior protection has been a concern, especially with Burrow taking 48 sacks and facing significant pressure. Taylor is cautious about naming starters prior to the draft but anticipates bolstering the offensive line as a priority with six draft picks in hand.

The NFL's head coaching landscape is in full display with various coaches sharing their perspectives at the league's spring meeting in Palm Beach. First-year New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn is finding his footing, while Pete Carroll returns to the coaching realm with the Las Vegas Raiders. Zac Taylor from Cincinnati is busy with negotiations for star wide receivers. On the other hand, Sean Payton of the Denver Broncos expressed satisfaction with his established program and the end of the team’s playoff drought, emphasizing the stability at the quarterback position.

Payton highlighted the team's recent success with a young quarterback as a key factor in attracting free agents, allowing the Broncos to focus on enhancing their roster. He also discussed their notable free-agent signings, including safety Talanoa Hufanga, linebacker Dre Greenlaw, and tight end Evan Engram, all of whom bring varying degrees of toughness and skill. With the draft looming, the Broncos are excited about the deep running back class, indicating that they are keen to develop their returning group while also scouting for fresh talent.

The Cincinnati Bengals have seemingly concluded their activities in NFL free agency, pivoting their focus to the upcoming draft. Coach Zac Taylor hinted that the team has moved past addressing the guard position, which may come as a shock to fans, given the glaring need on the roster. Despite re-signing Cody Ford and acquiring Lucas Patrick, the solutions are considered below starter-level quality, as indicated by their contract details.

This leaves the Bengals in a tricky position heading into the draft. Addressing the guard spot now could mean sacrificing other valuable positions, and they may also be thrust into a scenario where they rely on untested talent alongside second-year tackle Amarius Mims. With established free agents like Brandon Scherff still available, Taylor's comments could stir discontent among the fanbase. However, it's essential to note that signings can still occur after the draft.