Clint

Boling

Boling said if not for the clot, he would have returned for 2019. Boling’s retirement has left the Bengals ruinously thin on the left side of their offensive line.

Only 30, Boling cited “medical” concerns as the reason for his retirement. “This is not an easy decision, but it is the right one for me, my wife Kelly and our two young girls.” A fourth-round pick in 2011, Boling has been a fixture at left guard for the Bengals since his sophomore season. With first-rounder Jonah Williams out for the season and Boling retired, the Bengals have a big hole at left guard.

Boling won’t suit up with veteran Bobbie Williams starting in his return from an early-season suspension. The Bengals’ run blocking has exceeded expectations over the first month.

The Bengals’ opening drive was actually one of their better ones of the day, with Cedric Benson breaking three runs of four yards or longer to the right side. Boling was replaced by Mike McGlynn. A fourth-round pick, Boling was starting his third straight game in place of suspended Bobbie Williams. He could be shifted back to his natural position of tackle once Williams returns in Week 5.

Boling, a 2011 fourth-round pick, started all 16 games at left guard last season, and he graded out as Pro Football Focus’ No. 10 left guard. He may have to compete with veteran Travelle Wharton for the starting gig this season.

Boling suffered the injury during Sunday’s win over San Diego. He graded out as a top-20 guard in Pro Football Focus’ ratings prior to going down, but could struggle to get healthy in time for training camp next season. The Bengals re-signed OL Dennis Roland in a corresponding move to provide depth.

The injury occurred in Sunday’s Week 13 win over San Diego. Boling has graded out as a top-20 guard in Pro Football Focus’ 2013 ratings, receiving particularly high marks in pass protection. Mike Pollak is Boling’s backup.

Boling sat out Week 16 with a shoulder injury which has been bothering him most of the year. He needs a “scope,” and is expected to be ready for the offseason program. Closing out his age-27 season, Boling was effective if not spectacular on the left side.

Boling’s recovery from a Week 13 ACL tear has reportedly been “seamless.” Even if he’s not ready for day one, Boling should be ready to roll at some point during camp and suit up as the starting left guard come Week 1 at Baltimore.

Boling’s rehab has been termed as “seamless” since he tore his ACL in Week 13. Barring a setback, he’ll be the Bengals’ starting left guard come Week 1. It’s good news for both Cincinnati’s run and pass games.