In The Trenches with Dave Lapham

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.

Will These Free Agency Moves Make Bengals Super Bowl Ready?

In this episode of "In the Trenches with Dave Lapham," former NFL offensive lineman and Bengals analyst Dave Lapham delivers an in-depth breakdown of the Cincinnati Bengals' offseason plans, focusing on free agency, roster construction, and the team's approach to managing the salary cap. Lapham dives into the Bengals' strategy, emphasizing their focus on versatility, responsible spending, and avoiding the pitfalls of dead money.
Lapham begins by highlighting the Bengals' key re-signings, including Mike Gesicki, BJ Hill, and Cody Ford. He emphasizes these players' versatility, noting that they can play multiple positions and contribute in various ways on the field. Lapham points out that re-signing these players allows the Bengals to maintain continuity and familiarity within their system.
The discussion then shifts to the Bengals' approach to free agency, with Lapham analyzing the team's signings and releases. He notes that the Bengals have been active in retaining their own players and adding depth to their roster. He also discusses the challenges of managing the salary cap, particularly when it comes to signing high-profile players like Tee Higgins, Ja'Marr Chase, and Trey Hendrickson, in addition to Joe Burrow's existing contract.
Lapham delves into the intricacies of contract structures, explaining how the Bengals prioritize upfront payment to players and structuring contracts to avoid dead money. He contrasts this approach with that of other teams, such as the Cleveland Browns, which have struggled with salary cap issues due to large contracts with significant dead money implications.
The episode also explores the Bengals' needs on both sides of the ball. Lapham discusses the importance of strengthening the defensive line and finding a replacement for Alex Cappa at the guard position. He mentions several potential free agent targets and discusses the team's options for filling these needs.
Lapham emphasizes that the Bengals are committed to building a competitive team while being fiscally responsible. He highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy salary cap and avoiding the boom-and-bust cycles that can plague teams that overspend or mismanage their finances.
The discussion concludes with Lapham discussing the importance of team chemistry and the desire of players like Mike Gesicki to play alongside Joe Burrow and the Bengals' talented receiving corps. He notes that the opportunity to compete for a Super Bowl and be part of a winning culture can be a significant factor in players' decisions, even if it means taking a slightly smaller contract.
This episode provides valuable insights into the Bengals' off-season strategy and approach to building a sustainable, competitive team. Dave Lapham's expertise and analysis offer fans a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the Bengals as they navigate the complexities of NFL free agency and roster construction.
In The Trenches with Dave Lapham is presented by First Star Logistics.

Inside the Bengals' Front Office: Trey Brown on Roster Building, Free Agency, Combine, and NFL Draft

🏈 Dive deep into the Cincinnati Bengals' personnel strategies with senior executive Trey Brown! 🏈
Join us as we unpack an exclusive interview with Trey Brown, the Bengals' Senior Personnel Executive, who gives us an inside look at evaluating talent, navigating free agency, and the NFL Draft process. Learn what it takes to build a winning roster in the National Football League.
This is a MUST-WATCH for any Bengals fan and NFL enthusiast!
In this video, we cover:
 
Evaluating Personnel: What scouts look for when assessing players. Cincinnati Bengals Roster: From unrestricted to restricted free agents.
 
NFL Combine & Draft: How teams prepare and what to look for. General Manager Potential: Insights into Brown's career and potential future role.
 
Key Highlights: Hear Trey Brown discuss the Bengals' strategy.
 
Discover how the Bengals stay competitive in the player acquisition landscape.
 
We want to thank Trey Brown 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 2024 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.