Getting after the quarterback is one of the most critical elements at the NFL level. A strong pass-rush can help all other facets of a defense. It's an important area of football and is an area where the Cincinnati Bengals could use some help.
The Bengals rated out as one of the best pass defenses in the league last year, yet struggled to generate pressure against opposing quarterbacks. Cincy ranked just 31st in adjusted sack rate, which measures sacks in addition to intentional grounding penalties in certain downs and distances.
The Bengals could use some help on the edge. Carlos Dunlap's 8.0 sacks were solid yet nothing incredible and Wallace Gilberry proved to be more of a situational player. Scott Kacsmar of Football Outsiders thinks the Bengals should consider adding Greg Hardy to their defense this offseason.
"Greg Hardy's 15 sacks in 2013 helped power the Carolina Panthers to the playoffs," Kacsmar wrote. "After playing in only one game this season, Hardy saw his defense struggle without him. Of course, he missed most of the season because of domestic violence charges. Those have been dismissed, making it likely he'll play somewhere in the NFL this season. Hardy remains on the commissioner's exempt list, but the Panthers are not expected to pursue him when he becomes an unrestricted free agent March 10.
"Each team is going to have to make its own decision on whether to pursue Hardy, based on its understanding of Hardy's actions and past behavior. But we bring him up here because from a football standpoint, the Bengals-Hardy match makes sense. He is only 27 years old and can slide right into the Bengals' 4-3 defense and fill their void at pass-rusher."
Hardy recorded 26 sacks from 2012-2013. If the Bengals conclude that his issues are in the past, his addition does make a lot of football sense. However, Cincinnati will also have to weigh what type of message that sends to its clubhouse, the fans and the rest of the league. With a revamped personal conduct policy placing heavy emphasis on domestic violence incidents, Hardy could end up being more trouble than he's worth.
