The Cincinnati Bengals defence, which was among the best in the NFL at the end of 2022, drastically declined in the previous campaign. Cincinnati’s scoring defence was sixth-best in the NFL in 2022, thanks to its ability to force mistakes and shut down opponents in crucial circumstances. However, the squad finished the previous season ranked twenty-first. That’s an unconscionable turn of events in a single season, whether or not you think Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo is a top coach.
It turns out that there was a pretty good explanation for this: although it was thought during the previous season that Hubbard had only sprained his ankle high, the injury proved to be serious enough to necessitate surgery this offseason. In particular, Hubbard’s broken ankle was completely repaired a few weeks ago after he had a tightrope and deltoid operation. Following his recuperation, he disclosed to media the extent of his suffering throughout the previous season.
Hubbard was regrettably correct: despite star quarterback Joe Burrow sitting out the entire season due to an injury, his terrible play in the latter half of the previous campaign had a significant role in this team’s failure to qualify for the postseason. Given that he was essentially playing with one leg last season, Hubbard deserves some credit. Fortunately, he is now fully recovered.
Notably, Hubbard’s endeavour served as the model for the entire defence. Myles Murphy, a first-round selection the previous season, praised Hubbard’s perseverance in playing through such a serious injury. When he exerts so much effort on behalf of the guys around him, this unit has the potential to reach new heights in the future.
Since being selected in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft by Ohio State, Hubbard has emerged as a significant leader on this team. Cincinnati’s potential for success this season is virtually limitless when they have a player like that on their team.
