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.
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 $3.7M in base salary and a $4.76M cap hit. By trading or releasing him, the Bengals would save $4.1M 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.
More must-reads: