Bengals Set to Lose Key Trent Brown Replacement in Chiefs-Saints Showdown

Bengals Set to Lose Key Trent Brown Replacement in Chiefs-Saints Showdown

The Cincinnati Bengals’ rough season has taken a turn for the worse with another major setback, and they might be forced to consider free agent Charles Leno. Starting right tackle Trent Brown injured his knee during the Week 3 loss to the Washington Commanders and didn’t return. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Brown suffered a torn patellar tendon and is out for the rest of the 2024 season.

This is a huge blow for Cincinnati, leaving them with no option but to start first-round pick Amarius Mims. While Mims is seen as a high-potential player, he was expected to spend the season refining his skills as Brown held down the position. If Mims isn’t ready for the starting role, the Bengals may face competition from the Kansas City Chiefs and New Orleans Saints in signing Charles Leno as a free agent.

After Trent Brown’s injury, the Bengals could compete with the Chiefs and Saints to sign free agent Charles Leno.

The Kansas City Chiefs drafted offensive tackle Kingsley Suamataia with hopes of developing him into their next elite blindside protector. While the BYU standout has the potential for a long and prosperous career, he’s struggled early on, ranking 73rd out of 74 eligible players in PFF grades through three games. Veteran Wanya Morris hasn’t fared much better, sitting 55th in the same rankings. Protecting Patrick Mahomes is crucial for Kansas City’s success, making free agent Charles Leno a strong candidate for a one-year deal.

Despite their 3-0 record, the Chiefs’ offense hasn’t been its usual dominant force. With Marquise Brown out indefinitely and Travis Kelce showing signs of age, Mahomes is left relying on rising star Rashee Rice and first-round pick Xavier Worthy. While Mahomes is capable of carrying this duo deep into the postseason, improved pass protection will be essential if the Chiefs want to win another Super Bowl. Signing Charles Leno could solidify their offensive line and provide the protection needed to withstand elite pass rushers come February.

The Surprisingly Surging Saints

The 2024 outlook for the New Orleans Saints remains a mystery. They dominated through the first two weeks, only to falter in Week 3 against the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite the setback, the Saints are still in a strong position to win the NFC South and make their first playoff appearance since Drew Brees’ retirement. However, to boost their postseason chances, they should consider bringing in free agent Charles Leno.

First-round pick Trevor Penning, after a solid Week 1, has struggled over the past two games. With Derek Carr among the league’s worst quarterbacks under pressure, Penning’s poor performance could jeopardize the Saints’ playoff hopes. While Leno isn’t on the level of Trent Williams, he would be a significant improvement over Penning. Pairing Leno with rookie Taliese Fuaga at tackle would give the Saints a better chance to keep Carr protected and make a playoff push.