The 2024 season for the Cincinnati Bengals was filled with “what if” moments that left fans pondering the possibilities. What if the defense had performed at league-average level? What if they had managed to close out a few more one-score contests? What if the postseason had been within reach? While it’s easy to get lost in the hypotheticals, the focus now clearly shifts to the future and the adjustments that can set this team up for success in 2025.
Anyone who kept an eye on the Bengals last season could see that changes were necessary on the defensive side of the ball. With a roster that struggled to keep opposing offenses at bay, there’s a strong case to be made for a revitalization of personnel as they gear up for the next campaign.
One name that keeps surfacing in conversations around boosting the Bengals’ defense is none other than J.J. Watt. This three-time Defensive Player of the Year and five-time first-team All-Pro left a significant mark on the NFL during his illustrious career before stepping away from the game in 2022. His presence on the field sent shivers down the spines of quarterbacks and offensive coordinators alike – and his potential addition to the Bengals could be a game-changer.
After his retirement, Watt shifted gears to become a part-owner of Burnley Football Club, an English soccer team, which has proven to be an interesting chapter in his post-NFL life. But this past season, a playful wager between Watt and Burnley’s goalkeeper, James Trafford, has reignited some chatter about a possible return to the gridiron. The bet? If Trafford could keep a clean sheet for the rest of the season, Watt would don the Bengals’ orange and black in 2025.
Remarkably, Trafford has risen to the challenge, maintaining a perfect record of nine consecutive games without conceding a goal. This incredible feat leaves fans wondering just how close Watt is to returning to the NFL, especially given his playful comments about the delights of Cincinnati’s culinary scene, such as Montgomery Inn BBQ and Graeter’s Ice Cream.
As the season progresses with 15 matches remaining for Burnley, the stakes couldn’t be higher. If Trafford manages to continue his streak, we may very well witness J.J. Watt joining forces with Joe Burrow and the Bengals next season, adding a formidable force to their defensive lineup. While it’s a fun story to follow, the implications for the Bengals could be monumental, potentially altering their trajectory in the competitive AFC landscape. Buckle up, Bengals fans; the next chapter just might be an exciting one!
