In The Trenches with Dave Lapham

Fixing the Trenches: Bengals' 2025 Draft Strategy for Offensive & Defensive Dominance

Dive deep into the Cincinnati Bengals' philosophy and strategy heading into the crucial 2025 NFL Draft. As April arrives, so does the anticipation for how the Bengals will build upon their foundation. This video explores the enduring principle established by team founder Paul Brown: Draft, Develop, Retain. This core tenet remains the bedrock of the Bengals' approach to team building, aiming for sustained success rather than quick fixes.
We examine recent proof of this philosophy in action, highlighting the extensions and mega-deals for cornerstone players like Joe Burrow (2020 1st pick), Tee Higgins (2020 2nd round pick), and Ja'Marr Chase (2021 1st pick). These moves underscore the commitment to identifying talent in the draft, nurturing its growth within the Bengals' system, and ultimately securing those players for the long term.
The discussion extends to the Bengals' recent free agency moves, where 13 out of 17 initial signings were their own players they opted to retain. This further emphasizes their dedication to keeping homegrown talent like Mike Gesicki, BJ Hill, Tanner Hudson, Joseph Ossai, and Cam Sample while strategically adding external pieces. This strategy has not only built continuity but also contributed to making Cincinnati an increasingly attractive destination for free agents seeking a successful and stable environment.
A significant portion of the video delves into the unique structure of the Bengals' draft evaluation process, another legacy of Paul Brown. Learn how the coaching staff is deeply integrated, acting as extensions of the scouting department. Position coaches meticulously break down film and study tape, project players' fits into the Bengals' specific offensive and defensive schemes, and actively participate in interviews and visits.
Discover the potential "secret weapon" the Bengals possess this year with Defensive Coordinator Al Golden. His recent experience coaching at Notre Dame provides invaluable insight into Fighting Irish prospects like Howard Cross, Jack Kiser, Xavier Watts, and Benjamin Morrison. Beyond just Notre Dame players, Golden's recent immersion in the college game means he's prepared defensive game plans against a wide array of top college offenses and prospects nationwide, giving the Bengals an extra layer of evaluation depth. This insight, combined with the college coaching backgrounds of other staff members (OL, DL, LB coaches), creates a robust evaluation team.
The video emphasizes why this draft aligns perfectly with the Bengals' pressing needs. Experts widely regard the 2025 draft class as exceptionally deep along the interior offensive and defensive lines – precisely where Cincinnati needs reinforcement to compete effectively, especially within the physical AFC North.
We identify and analyze several potential draft targets who could bolster the trenches:
Offensive Line: Names like Kelvin Banks (Texas), Will Campbell (LSU), Josh Conerly (Oregon), Marcus Minor (Purdue), Jonah Savaiinaea (Arizona), and Gray Zabel (NDSU) are discussed, with a strong emphasis on the crucial trait of position versatility. The ability of a lineman to play both tackle and guard or multiple interior spots is highly valued in today's NFL.
Defensive Line: Explore prospects suited for the interior, like Notre Dame's Howard Cross, Michigan's powerful duo of Mason Graham and the exceptionally athletic Kenneth Grant, Oklahoma's long-armed Derek Harmon, Kentucky's massive Deone Walker, and Ohio State's Tyleik Williams. The need for stout run defenders and interior pass rush is paramount.
Edge Rushers: This section briefly touches upon high-upside edge players like Abdul Carter (Penn State), James Pearce Jr. (Tennessee), and Shemar Stewart (Texas A&M), acknowledging the Bengals' potential interest if top talent slides.
Ultimately, the Bengals' draft strategy involves identifying the best available athlete who fits their culture and scheme, particularly when top talent unexpectedly falls. While needs on the offensive and defensive lines are clear, the Bengals won't hesitate to add value at other positions. This draft presents a massive opportunity to solidify the lines, protect Joe Burrow, improve the run defense, and maximize their championship window by adhering to their time-tested "Draft, Develop, Retain" philosophy.
Join us for the 3rd Annual First Star Logistics Draft Party! Watch Day 2 (Rounds 2 & 3) live from Handlebar at Great American Ballpark, starting Friday, April 25th at 7 PM. Hosted by Brad Johansen, with analysis from Joe Goodberry and myself, plus special Bengals guests! It's sold out in person, but you can catch the live stream exclusively on the First Star Media Group YouTube channel! 
Don't miss it!

Inside The Bengals: Part Two Mike Potts & Dave Lapham

Dive back into the fascinating world of NFL scouting in Part 2 of Dave Lapham's insightful conversation with Cincinnati Bengals Scouting Director Mike Potts. 
Following up on their initial discussion, Lapham and Potts delve deeper into the intricate process of evaluating talent for the NFL Draft, offering Bengals fans and draft enthusiasts a rare glimpse behind the curtain.
This segment tackles the crucial balance between on-field performance ("the tape") and athletic testing metrics from events like the NFL Combine. Potts emphasizes that while game film remains the ultimate arbiter ("the biggest deal is put on the tape and what do you see, right?"), athletic testing provides valuable context and potential indicators. They discuss the challenge of projecting players whose testing numbers might not align perfectly with their college production, exploring how scheme, coaching, or usage might influence what's seen on film. Can a player with "freakish" athletic traits but modest college stats be unlocked in the Bengals' system? Potts explains how the scouting department works to answer these complex questions.
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around gathering comprehensive player intelligence. Potts details how the Bengals leverage every available resource – from internal coaching staff insights (mentioning new additions like Al Golden and Jerry Montgomery, who bring fresh perspectives from college and other pro teams) to extensive networks of college contacts. He explains the value of coaches who have either game-planned against a prospect or coached them directly, providing nuanced understanding beyond the raw film.
The conversation highlights the importance of the player interview process. It's not just about football knowledge; it's about understanding the person, their character, work ethic, and how they might fit into the Bengals' locker room culture. Potts shares how they assess football IQ – can the player articulate concepts, understand schemes, and "talk football" intelligently when breaking down film? Interestingly, he notes that sometimes the most impressive prospects aren't the most polished interviewees, and vice-versa, requiring scouts to look deeper. Lapham probes Potts to see whether players ever ask insightful questions back, revealing another layer of the evaluation.
Potts, a former quarterback himself (William & Mary, brief pro stints), shares his perspective on how having played the game informs his scouting approach. He discusses how that experience helps him understand locker room dynamics, recognize subtle on-field traits, evaluate positional nuances, and relate to the pressures players face. This lived experience adds a crucial dimension to interpreting player profiles.
They touch upon the current state of the Bengals' roster-building philosophy, acknowledging the "good problem" of having drafted exceptionally well with stars like Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins. The discussion implicitly covers the challenges of retaining top talent under the salary cap, referencing the franchise tag on Higgins and Chase's potential market-setting value. The ongoing situation with Trey Hendrickson is also alluded to, illustrating the constant evaluation involved in managing the roster and cap, weighing player value against compensation and team needs. Potts reinforces the goal isn't to get rid of good players, but to continuously find ways to improve the team through all avenues – draft, free agency, and trades – while maintaining financial flexibility and avoiding burdensome "dead money."
Specific position groups from the recent Combine are discussed, acknowledging the remarkable athleticism on display, particularly along the defensive and offensive lines and in the secondary. Potts notes the trend of players getting bigger, stronger, and faster each year, presenting exciting but challenging evaluations. They discuss the depth present in this year's draft across various positions, emphasizing that while some spots might be more "top-heavy," there's talent to be found throughout the draft.
Ultimately, Potts paints a picture of a meticulous, multi-layered evaluation process that goes far beyond just watching highlights. It involves synthesizing film, athletic data, medical information, character assessments, scheme fit projections, and input from coaches and contacts to build a comprehensive draft board. He stresses the collaborative nature of the process and the goal of finding players who not only possess talent but also align with the Bengals' culture and vision for sustained success.
This Part 2 discussion is essential viewing for anyone wanting to understand the modern NFL scouting landscape and the Cincinnati Bengals' specific approach to building a championship-caliber roster.

PART ONE: NFL Draft & Free Agency Deep Dive: Bengals' Mike Potts Explains the Process

Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Cincinnati Bengals' roster-building strategy with Mike Potts, a key Bengals' personnel and scouting department member. In this insightful interview, Mike pulls back the curtain on the chaotic yet crucial off-season processes that shape the future of an NFL franchise.
The off-season in the National Football League is a whirlwind of activity, and Mike Potts navigates through it all. His area of focus is college scouting, a vital ingredient in the modern NFL, where roster turnover is constant. No roster is the same from one year to the next, and the draft and college free agency are often the lifeblood of franchises looking to rebuild or maintain their competitive edge.
Mike begins by vividly describing the current landscape, describing it as a "crazy time of the year" due to the simultaneous whirlwind of free agency, the NFL Combine, and the looming draft. He emphasizes that maintaining a consistent dialogue between the personnel staff, coaching staff, and ownership is crucial for aligning player evaluations and setting clear team goals.
He dives into the Bengals' free agency strategy, highlighting the team's priority of re-signing their own players. He underlines the importance of understanding "scheme fit" and "culture fit," ensuring players align with the Bengals' values and locker room dynamics. While acknowledging the large sums of money thrown around in free agency, he stresses the importance of cap management. The Bengals are known for remaining responsible with their cap, and he discusses how the team balances retaining key players with adding talent from other organizations.
The interview transitions into discussing the "secondary market" of free agency and finding opportunities beyond the initial bidding frenzy. Mike acknowledges that some players overshot the market, and being patient for the price to come down can present an opportunity.
Samaje Perine is discussed, as is his importance to the Bengals organization. Sam Hubbard's departure from the team after an impressive career is also discussed.
The discussion moves to the college draft, a central theme of Mike Potts' expertise. He emphasizes the value of players with positional versatility, as NFL rosters are limited in size, and players who can contribute in multiple roles are particularly valuable. He highlights BJ Hill, Mike Gesicki, and Cody Ford as players who can perform at numerous positions.
Potts explains why his team is so important to him and the direction of the team. According to him, the team's job is to scout each player and understand everything from their college careers to more personal details.
Transitioning to the upcoming NFL Draft, Potts assesses the overall depth and quality of the available talent. He explains that there may not be any first-ballot hall of farmers, but there is still a good amount of depth at various positions.
As the interview wraps up, Potts emphasizes the ongoing nature of roster evaluation and improvement. He notes that the Bengals will continue to monitor the free-agent market, assess draft prospects, and identify players who can contribute to the team's success.
In The Trenches with Dave Lapham is presented by First Star Logistics. Be sure to join Lap and Joe Goodberry for the 3rd Annual First Star Logistics Bengals Draft Party on Friday, April 25th, at 7:00 pm. You can watch the livestream exclusively on the First Star Media Group YouTube Channel.

Bengals Pass Game Coordinator Justin Rascati | Unleashing the Bengals Explosive Passing Game

Dive deep into the Cincinnati Bengals' explosive offense with their Pass Game Coordinator, Justin Rascati! Join Dave Lapham as they discuss the secrets behind the Bengals' success and the strategy used to create such a potent passing attack.
Unlocking Joe Burrow's Potential: Hear how Coach Rascati works with Joe Burrow to maximize his abilities, make in-game adjustments, and lead the team to victory.
Weaponry Analysis: An in-depth look at the Bengals' incredible receiving corps, including Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and new addition Mike Gesicki. Understand how Coach Rascati plans to utilize their unique talents to create matchup nightmares for opposing defenses.
Scheme Secrets: Gain valuable insights into the passing game concepts that drive the Bengals' offense, including play action, route combinations, and red-zone strategies.
The Power of Versatility: Discover how Coach Rascati develops versatile players who can excel in multiple positions, giving the Bengals a competitive advantage.
A Deep Dive on the NFL Combine: A look at everything that goes into the combine in regards to the passing gameUnlocking Joe Burrow's Potential: Hear how Coach Rascati works with Joe Burrow to maximize his abilities, make in-game adjustments, and lead the team to victory.
We want to thank Coach Rascati for being a fantastic guest and for joining us today on In the Trenches with Dave Lapham brought to you by First Star Logistics. We also look forward to growing our new central channel, First Star Media Group, and having you fans follow us along the ride.
A lot more content is coming soon so definitely hit that subscribe button so you never miss one of our uploads! As always Who Dey! Want to win great prizes from First Star Logistics during the Bengals season? During the 2025 Cincinnati Bengals season, First Star Logistics will give away some great and unique prizes. Follow @FirstStarLog, @DLInTheTrenches, and @JoeGoodberry for details each week on how you can win.

Dave Lapham: Bengals Strategy - Draft - Develop - Retain

Cincinnati Bengals fans are excited that the saga of Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins' futures is now over. However, the question remains of what the Bengals will do with defensive end Trey Hendrickson.
While many have been critical of the Bengals' moves this offseason, there seems to be a strategy behind them.
Dave Lapham explores what the Bengals have done as they're working on drafting, developing, and retaining players making up their core roster by staying away from future salary cap issues.
In The Trenches with Dave Lapham is presented by First Star Logistics.
Be sure to join the 3rd Annual First Star Logistics Draft Party on April 25th at 7:00 pm, streaming on the First Star Media Group YouTube Channel.

Coach James Casey | Inside Look Cincinnati Bengals Tight Ends Room

Dave Lapham goes "In The Trenches" with Cincinnati Bengals Tight End Coach James Casey. It's a candid and insightful conversation with one of the most respected assistant coaches in the NFL. Lapham and Casey delve deep into the nuances of the tight-end position, exploring the skills, intelligence, and versatility required to excel.
Casey provides an inside look at the Bengals' tight end room, discussing each player's strengths, including Mike Gesicki, Drew Sample, Tanner Hudson, and others. Learn about the team's strategy for utilizing the tight end position in the Bengals' high-powered offense. The conversation explores the role of the tight end in both the running and passing games.
James shares his philosophy on developing tight ends, emphasizing the importance of mastering blocking and receiving techniques. You will hear that tight ends need to be elite on special teams. Casey emphasizes the significance of understanding the entire offensive scheme and reading defenses, highlighting how the tight end must be an extension of the quarterback on the field.
Beyond the Xs and Os, Lapham and Casey discuss the challenges and rewards of coaching in the NFL, the importance of building strong relationships with players, and the impact a coach can have on their lives. You will be inspired by Coach Casey's life while overcoming adversity. Get ready for an in-depth look at the Bengals' tight end position and the mind of the coach shaping its future.

Bengals Offensive Line Coach Scott Peters | Bengals Offensive Line Will be Improved in 2025

Dave Lapham sits down with Cincinnati Bengals offensive line coach Scott Peters! Learn how Coach Peters is using his background in martial arts to revolutionize the Bengals' O-line techniques.
Revolutionizing the O-Line: Learn about the unique martial arts-inspired techniques Coach Peters is bringing to the Bengals, including hand placement, footwork, and arm extension strategies.
Mentors Matter: Discover the invaluable lessons Coach Peters learned from coaching legends like Jim McNally and Bill Callahan.
Building a Dominant Line: How Coach Peters is rebuilding the Bengals O-line after some key departures.
Trench Warfare: The techniques Scott uses to coach players with toughness and resilience.
 
We want to thank Coach Peters for being a fantastic guest and for joining us today on In the Trenches with Dave Lapham brought to you by First Star Logistics. We also look forward to growing our new central channel, First Star Media Group, and having you fans follow us along the ride. A lot more content is coming soon so definitely hit that subscribe button so you never miss one of our uploads! As always Who Dey!
Want to win great prizes from First Star Logistics during the Bengals season? During the 2025 Cincinnati Bengals season, First Star Logistics will give away some great and unique prizes. Follow @FirstStarLog, @DLInTheTrenches, and @JoeGoodberry for details each week on how you can win.
 

Bengals Coach Darrin Simmons: Evaluating Prospects for the NFL Draft & Bengals Special Teams Success

Darrin Simmons of the Cincinnati Bengals! joins Dave Lapham as he sits down with Coach Simmons, a 23-year veteran of the Bengals organization.
This exclusive interview takes you inside the world of special teams, offering unique insights into player evaluation, team building, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
What you'll discover:
The Simmons Legacy: Hear firsthand about Darrin Simmons' incredible journey, from his beginnings as a strength and conditioning coach to his current role as Assistant Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator. Discover the secrets to his longevity and the keys to building a consistent winning culture.
Special Teams Philosophy: Delve into the core principles that guide Coach Simmons' approach to special teams. Learn how he identifies talent, develops players, and creates a competitive environment where everyone contributes. Player Spotlights: Get the inside scoop on Bengals special teams standouts, including Tyson Anderson, DJ Ivey and what to watch for next season
Combine Insights: Coach Simmons shares his perspective on the NFL Combine, discussing the importance of face-to-face interactions, the changing landscape of player evaluation, and what he looks for in future Bengals.
We want to thank Coach Simmons for being a fantastic guest and for joining us today on In the Trenches with Dave Lapham brought to you by First Star Logistics. We also look forward to growing our new central channel, First Star Media Group, and having you fans follow us along the ride. A lot more content is coming soon so definitely hit that subscribe button so you never miss one of our uploads! As always Who Dey! 
Want to win great prizes from First Star Logistics during the Bengals season? During the 2025 Cincinnati Bengals season, First Star Logistics will give away some great and unique prizes. Follow @FirstStarLog, @DLInTheTrenches, and @JoeGoodberry for details each week on how you can win.

Bengals New LB Coach Mike Hodges: Raw Intelligence & Football IQ!

Get an exclusive, in-depth look at the Cincinnati Bengals' new Linebacker Coach, Mike Hodges, in this captivating "In the Trenches with Dave Lapham" episode brought to you by First Star Logistics. Dave Lapham sits down with Hodges to explore his unique journey from a high school Air Force Academy recruit to a standout walk-on football player at Texas A&M and now a rising star in the NFL coaching world.
Hodges' story is not your typical football narrative. After being accepted into the Air Force Academy out of high school, he demonstrated a rare combination of academic prowess and athletic ability. After deciding to transfer to Texas A&M, he earned the prestigious Aggie Heart Award, an honor bestowed upon a player embodying character, leadership, academic excellence, and on-field/off-field commitment. This award sets him apart and speaks volumes about his dedication and integrity.
Dave Lapham delves into Hodges' eight years with the New Orleans Saints, including five years as the Linebacker Coach. During these years, Hodges honed his coaching skills and mentored talented players like Demario Davis. He shares his insights on Davis' exceptional work ethic and consistent performance, emphasizing the importance of a team-first mentality and tireless dedication in achieving long-term success in the NFL.
Hear Hodges' perspective on the Bengals' current linebacker group, including Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt. He discusses his evaluation process for potential free agent acquisitions and draft prospects, emphasizing the need for players who possess physical talent and demonstrate a strong football IQ, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to learn and retain information effectively.
Hodges highlights the importance of collaboration within the Bengals' coaching staff. He commends Defensive Coordinator Al Golden inclusive approach, fostering an environment where coaches feel empowered to share their ideas and contribute to the team's strategic direction. He also touches on how all of the team can get behind Joe Burrow.
Hodges shares his excitement about working with Joe Burrow, emphasizing the importance of building a strong defensive support system around the star quarterback. He highlights the need for a simplified yet deceptive defensive scheme that allows players to execute effectively without being overwhelmed by complex play calls.
He shares how his experiences can improve the Bengals and get them ready for some tough competition in the AFC North.
This episode offers a unique blend of personal anecdotes, coaching philosophy, and strategic insights, providing Bengals fans with a comprehensive understanding of their new linebacker coach and his vision for the team's future. Don't miss this exclusive interview that goes beyond the Xs and Os to reveal the character and intellect driving one of the NFL's most promising young coaches.

Troy Walters: Bengals MASSIVE Double Deal Keeps Star Receivers Together!

Go behind the scenes with Cincinnati Bengals Wide Receiver Coach Troy Walters! In this in-depth interview, Coach Walters shares his insights on the explosive potential of Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and the Bengals receiving corps. 
He discusses the importance of having Chase and Higgins re-sign, the dynamic they bring to the team, and how they work together to make Joe Burrow and the offense unstoppable. 
Get a coach's perspective on what makes Ja'Marr Chase special, including his incredible yards-after-catch ability. Coach Walters explains how he's building a receiving corps that's known for not just catching passes but also being dominant blockers downfield and how he keeps players challenged and hungry for improvement. 
You'll hear how they foster a dynamic and consistent offense. Don't miss this opportunity to get inside the Bengals' wide receiver room and understand the winning strategies and philosophy that are making them one of the most exciting teams in the NFL!
In The Trenches with Dave Lapham is presented by First Star Logistics.

Mike Gesicki: Grateful To Be Back With Bengals

The Bengals keep a big pass catcher in town, and it’s a big one! Dave Lapham dives deep into "In The Trenches" with veteran NFL tight end Mike Gesicki to discuss his decision to remain with the Cincinnati Bengals and what he hopes to keep bringing to the offense. 
This exclusive interview, brought to you by First Star Logistics, explores Gesicki's journey from a multi-sport standout in high school to his professional career with the Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, and Cincinnati Bengals.
Mike Gesicki is coming off of a one-year "prove it" deal with the Bengals, where he will continue to benefit from the trust, creativity, and football intelligence of Joe Burrow, a quarterback known for elevating the play of those around him. Gesicki knows that the connection with a QB as intelligent and creative as Burrow is a rare opportunity. The pair sees the game through the same lens, understands coverages, and makes adjustments on the fly, and that connection is primed to take his game to another level.
Gesicki has signed a 3-year, $25.5 million deal with the Bengals. What does this "generational wealth" mean to him, and how did his multi-sport background shape him as an athlete?
Dave and Mike dive into Mike’s history as a high school superstar. At Southern Regional High School in New Jersey, Gesicki didn’t just play multiple sports - he DOMINATED them, setting school records for basketball points, football receiving yards, and volleyball blocks. This multi-faceted athleticism gave him multiple opportunities to play in college:
Basketball offers at Patriot League schools such as Colgate and Bucknell
Recruited to play Volleyball at Penn State
Football scholarship offers to big-time programs, and finally deciding to chase that dream
How has his athletic background played a role in his NFL success? He has always been an athlete, but it wasn’t until his career at Penn State with the Nittany Lions that his talents as a Tight End began to blossom. This was followed by his time with the Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, and finally, landing with the Cincinnati Bengals. Gesicki credits much of his journey to working hard and staying consistent. That work ethic has carried him to where he is today!
Gesicki possesses a rare blend of size, speed, and athleticism for a tight end. At 6'6" and 245 pounds, he boasts an incredible 41.5-inch vertical jump. What does it mean to have a vertical jump that impressive? He also ran a 4.5-second 40-yard dash and features an arm length of over 34 inches with a 10.25-inch hand. He's a physical marvel who can run routes, make contested catches, and even contribute as a blocker.
He continues working with Tight Ends coach James Casey, a tremendous coach with years of experience. Casey had a fantastic career at Rice University and brings vast knowledge to help Gesicki. But what is the tight end room like even beyond the game? Gesicki loves the group, with Drew Sample, Tanner Hudson, Cam Grandy, and Tanner McLauchlin all contributing to the team's overall success.
Versatility is the calling card for the Bengals Tight End room. Does Mike see himself as an offensive weapon that can be used in multiple ways? Will this help them to attack those slow starts they have endured over the last several years? The Bengals are trying to change things up to keep teams on their toes!
Gesicki discusses the importance of the "contested catch" and how he thrives in those situations. When does he feel as though it was a strength of his? Does he feel as though it has gotten better and better as he got further into his career?
Ultimately, Gesicki is thrilled to be a part of the Cincinnati Bengals organization. He values the team's culture, the coaching staff's vision, and the chance to play alongside Joe Burrow. He recognizes the potential for success in Cincinnati and is determined to contribute to the team's goals.
Join Dave Lapham as he gets "In The Trenches" with Mike Gesicki, brought to you by First Star Logistics. Subscribe to our channel, hit the like button, and visit the First Star Media Group YouTube channel for exclusive content and special giveaways.

B.J. Hill: The Multi-Million Dollar Bengal Talks New Contract, Team Goals, and More!

Step inside "The Trenches with Dave Lapham" as the legendary Bengals offensive lineman sits down for an exclusive, in-depth conversation with defensive powerhouse B.J. Hill. This isn't just a surface-level interview; it's a deep dive into the heart and mind of a player who has become synonymous with tenacity, resilience, and commitment to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Fresh off signing a lucrative three-year, $33 million contract, B.J. Hill opens up to Dave Lapham about the significance of this monumental achievement in his life. More than just a dollar figure, this contract symbolizes years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to his craft. Discover what this financial security means to B.J.'s family, providing them with opportunities and a future they could only dream of. Hear his heartfelt gratitude for the Bengals organization, who have placed their faith in his abilities as a cornerstone of their defensive line.
But this interview isn't just about the money but the journey. B.J. takes us back to his roots, sharing stories from childhood, where he excelled as a multi-sport athlete. You might be surprised that football wasn't always B.J.'s primary focus! He dreamed of playing basketball, showcasing his incredible athleticism on the court. Learn how his diverse athletic background – including basketball, baseball, and track and field – helped shape him into the versatile and dominant defensive lineman he is today. Find out what ultimately led him to pursue football and the pivotal moments that solidified his passion for the gridiron.
Dave Lapham masterfully guides the conversation, exploring B.J.'s college career at North Carolina State, where he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Hear about the challenges he faced early on, the moments of doubt, and the unwavering support of his coaches and teammates that propelled him forward. Learn about his experience at the Senior Bowl, where he showcased his skills on a national stage and solidified his status as a top NFL prospect.
The interview takes a fascinating turn as B.J. reflects on his transition to the NFL, initially drafted by the New York Giants. While grateful for the opportunity, B.J. admits that something felt missing. Enter the Cincinnati Bengals, who orchestrated a pivotal trade in 2021, bringing B.J. to the Queen City. Discover how this trade changed his career trajectory and why Cincinnati feels like home.
Relive the magic of the Bengals' unforgettable Super Bowl run, with B.J. providing unique insights and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Hear about the incredible camaraderie within the team, the unwavering belief in their abilities, and the resilience that allowed them to overcome adversity. Revisit the iconic play that cemented B.J.'s place in Bengals lore: his game-changing interception against Patrick Mahomes in the AFC Championship game. B.J. walks us through the play, sharing what he saw, what he felt, and the impact it had on the team's momentum.
Beyond his on-field accomplishments, B.J. Hill is a devoted family man. He shares the joys and challenges of balancing his demanding NFL career with the responsibilities of raising three young children. Hear about his wife, his biggest supporter, and how they navigate the demanding life of a professional athlete while creating a loving and stable home.
Dave Lapham skillfully probes B.J.'s leadership qualities, exploring his role as a mentor to younger players on the Bengals' defensive line. Discover how he embraces the responsibility of guiding and inspiring the next generation, sharing his wisdom, and fostering a culture of teamwork and excellence.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, B.J. shares his goals for himself and the team. He emphasizes the importance of starting strong, maintaining consistency, and building upon the foundation they established during their Super Bowl run. Hear his excitement about working with the new coaching staff and his unwavering commitment to bringing a championship to Cincinnati.
This is more than just an interview; it's an inspiring story of perseverance, dedication, and the power of family. B.J. Hill embodies the values of hard work, humility, and unwavering belief in oneself. Join Dave Lapham as they explore the depths of B.J.'s journey, celebrating his accomplishments and inspiring viewers to chase their dreams passionately and purposefully.
Don't miss this exclusive interview with one of Cincinnati's most beloved football heroes! First Star Logistics is proud to support "In the Trenches with Dave Lapham" and celebrate the accomplishments of B.J. Hill.