The Cincinnati Bengals face a significant setback as reserve guard Cordell Volson is expected to miss the entire season due to a serious shoulder injury.

Why it matters: Volson’s absence could impact both the Bengals' offensive line depth and the overall effectiveness of their blocking scheme, especially in an era where protecting the quarterback and establishing a robust run game are vital.

• As a fourth-round pick in 2022, Volson has been a reliable presence, starting in 48 of his 50 appearances over the past three seasons.
• His role was particularly crucial this year as he was projected to be a backup right guard, providing essential depth behind the starters.

What’s new: The injury occurred during practice on August 15, leading to the decision for Volson to undergo surgery.

• Bengals head coach Zac Taylor acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating, "That's a tough one for him. He's been a guy that's really worked hard for us."
• Although Volson's future remains uncertain until after the surgery, initial assessments suggest a lengthy recovery process.

Yes, but: While losing Volson is a blow, the Bengals have time to adjust their roster and may explore other options to fill the gap.

• The Bengals recently restructured Volson's contract, lowering its total value to $2.6 million for 2025, which provides them some financial flexibility in addressing roster needs.

What to watch: Monitor how the Bengals approach their offensive line strategy moving forward, particularly in developing young talent or making potential roster moves.

• With the season approaching, the team might look to elevate other players from within or consider external acquisitions to bolster the line.

The bottom line: Cordell Volson's anticipated absence leaves a void that could affect the team's offensive performance, necessitating strategic adjustments by the coaching staff.

• The Bengals will need to ensure that they maintain a cohesive unit in front of quarterback Joe Burrow, who relies heavily on protection to execute their dynamic offensive system effectively.

In summary, while the loss of Volson is undoubtedly a hurdle for the Bengals, it also presents an opportunity for others to step up in a critical season.

The Cincinnati Bengals face a significant setback as reserve guard Cordell Volson is expected to miss the entire season due to a serious shoulder injury.

Why it matters: Volson’s absence could impact both the Bengals' offensive line depth and the overall effectiveness of their blocking scheme, especially in an era where protecting the quarterback and establishing a robust run game are vital.

• As a fourth-round pick in 2022, Volson has been a reliable presence, starting in 48 of his 50 appearances over the past three seasons.
• His role was particularly crucial this year as he was projected to be a backup right guard, providing essential depth behind the starters.

What’s new: The injury occurred during practice on August 15, leading to the decision for Volson to undergo surgery.

• Bengals head coach Zac Taylor acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating, "That's a tough one for him. He's been a guy that's really worked hard for us."
• Although Volson's future remains uncertain until after the surgery, initial assessments suggest a lengthy recovery process.

Yes, but: While losing Volson is a blow, the Bengals have time to adjust their roster and may explore other options to fill the gap.

• The Bengals recently restructured Volson's contract, lowering its total value to $2.6 million for 2025, which provides them some financial flexibility in addressing roster needs.

What to watch: Monitor how the Bengals approach their offensive line strategy moving forward, particularly in developing young talent or making potential roster moves.

• With the season approaching, the team might look to elevate other players from within or consider external acquisitions to bolster the line.

The bottom line: Cordell Volson's anticipated absence leaves a void that could affect the team's offensive performance, necessitating strategic adjustments by the coaching staff.

• The Bengals will need to ensure that they maintain a cohesive unit in front of quarterback Joe Burrow, who relies heavily on protection to execute their dynamic offensive system effectively.

In summary, while the loss of Volson is undoubtedly a hurdle for the Bengals, it also presents an opportunity for others to step up in a critical season.