Jackson Carman Switches Positions as Backup Tackle Battle Starts to Heat Up

Cincinnati's starters in the trenches are set, but who will earn the backup jobs?.

Author:
James Rapien
Publish date:
Aug 14, 2023 7:05 AM EDT

In this story:

CINCINNATI — La'el Collins went through a full workout on the Bengals practice field on Sunday.

He looked strong and quick as he went through his most intense workout during a practice (that's been open to the media) since tearing his ACL on Christmas Eve.

It was a reminder that the veteran is working to get back and while a return by the start of the season may be unlikely, he's hoping to make an impact this season.

"Anytime I'm able to get some good speed off the edge, a good look, it's always great. Just to be able to get that time and get that rhythm," Collins said. "Every day I come in I'm doing a little more. I feel a little better. I get a little stronger."

There's a decent chance Collins starts the season on the PUP list, which would mean he'd miss at least four games.

That would give him even more time to recover. He had surgery in January, so it was just over seven months ago.

Which young lineman could emerge as the swing tackle behind Orlando Brown Jr. and Jonah Williams?

Jackson Carman entered camp hoping to win the starting right tackle job, but that didn't work out and he lined up at left tackle during Sunday's session.

Will D'Ante Smith's stellar play continue as he makes a push, not only to make the roster, but to be the first offensive tackle off the bench?

Hakeem Adeniji is also in the mix. He's started 15 regular season games in three seasons with the Bengals.

Carman appeared to be the favorite for the swing tackle spot coming into camp, especially with the way he finished last season, but now it's more of a toss up. Adeniji has the most experience and Smith has arguably had the best camp of the trio.

Veteran Cody Ford could also be in the running for the backup right tackle spot.

The Bengals have their starting offensive line locked in, but the coaching staff will likely face some tough decisions on cut-down day.

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