Bengals Getting Great Value With Mike Gesicki After Juwan Johnson Gets New Deal From Saints. The Cincinnati Bengals have made a savvy offseason move, securing veteran tight end Mike Gesicki at a bargain price, especially when compared to the new deal Juwan Johnson just signed with the New Orleans Saints. With the Bengals needing reliable pass-catching options beyond Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, Gesicki’s arrival offers tremendous upside without breaking the bank.
A Cost-Effective Move for a Productive Tight End
In today’s NFL, tight ends who can stretch the field are a valuable asset, and Gesicki fits that mold perfectly. A former second-round pick, Gesicki has proven himself as a dynamic receiving threat, particularly excelling in contested catches and red-zone situations. While his stint with the New England Patriots in 2023 didn’t produce eye-popping numbers, his skill set remains valuable for an offense that thrives on vertical passing concepts.
Meanwhile, the Saints locked in Juwan Johnson on a lucrative contract extension, showing just how expensive reliable tight ends are becoming. While Johnson is a solid player, the Bengals’ ability to sign Gesicki at a lower price while maintaining similar production potential highlights the front office’s ability to find value in free agency.
Why Mike Gesicki Is a Perfect Fit for the Bengals
- Red-Zone Target – With his 6’6” frame and leaping ability, Gesicki can provide quarterback Joe Burrow with a much-needed red-zone weapon, easing the burden on Chase and Higgins inside the 20-yard line.
- Downfield Playmaking – Unlike traditional tight ends who thrive on short routes, Gesicki is more of a big-slot receiver, capable of stretching the field and making explosive plays.
- Affordable Contract – Given the market for tight ends, signing Gesicki at a reasonable price allows the Bengals to allocate resources elsewhere, particularly toward bolstering their offensive line or re-signing key defensive players.
- Experienced Veteran Presence – While still just 28 years old, Gesicki brings veteran experience that could help young tight ends on the Bengals’ roster develop.
How Gesicki Compares to Juwan Johnson
Statistically, both Gesicki and Johnson have produced at a similar level, with Gesicki having the advantage in career receptions and yards. However, Johnson has thrived in a Saints offense that heavily features the tight end, while Gesicki’s recent numbers were impacted by inconsistent usage in New England. Given the Bengals’ high-powered passing game, Gesicki could see a resurgence and outperform expectations in 2024.
Final Thoughts: A Low-Risk, High-Reward Signing
By securing Gesicki at a fraction of what some tight ends are earning, the Bengals are getting great value at a position of need. His ability to contribute in the red zone and provide another big-bodied receiving option for Burrow makes him an exciting addition. If used correctly, Gesicki could be one of the best bargain signings of the offseason, proving once again that the Bengals’ front office knows how to find value without overpaying.
