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.