The Cincinnati Bengals are set to face off against a division rival in the Cleveland Browns in their season opener this weekend. And they will be getting back a key player ahead of the game after an announcement from Bengals head coach Zac Taylor.
Bengals cornerback Chidobe Awuzie has been sidelined since Week 8 of last season after tearing his ACL against the Browns.
But luckily, his recovery has gone well, and Zac Taylor announced on Monday that Awuzie will play in their season opener on Sunday.
Chidobe Awuzie will play Sunday, according to Zac Taylor.
He will make his return on the same field he tore his ACL on Halloween in Cleveland.
— Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) September 4, 2023
Awuzie has been a big part of the Bengals’ success on defense since joining the team in 2021, starting 14 games in 2021 and eight games in 2022 before his devastating injury.
Fans took notice of this news and are extremely happy to hear that he will be returning to the field for the Bengals.
He's been one of the more under the radar really successful FA signings of recent years. https://t.co/iiFHwUIyYF
— over zone y (@cmikesspinmove) September 4, 2023
Love to hear it @ChidobeAwuzie. Big comeback year. https://t.co/2qayfpiQ3b
— Mat Smith (@RealMatSmith) September 4, 2023
Elite duo with CTB. Add Mikey Hilton in the slot and mix in a bit of DJ Turner and we might see 2-3 Interceptions this coming Sunday. https://t.co/5J0IOBY5TI
— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) September 4, 2023
It’s about that time revenge game for number 22 https://t.co/8vTm0TJqif
— Dislo (@Dislocation1234) September 4, 2023
Cb1 is back https://t.co/qqg4X5sJEY
— Bengals Buzz (@CinBengalsBuzz) September 4, 2023
Much of the talk around the Bengals in recent years has been around their offense. And with stars like Joe Burrow, JaMarr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Joe Mixon, it is justified that they get so much praise.
However, if the Bengals are going to be a true Super Bowl contender, their defense will need to take a step forward. And Awuzie’s return should certainly go a long way in making their defense formidable again this season.
