Even though the Bengals had a disappointing 2017 campaign, there were signs of improvement—particularly as the year progressed. A number of younger players and even some grizzled veterans showed improvement from 2016.
Here are the nominees for the Bengals’ Most Improved Player of 2017:
Cornerback Darqueze Dennard: After a tumultuous first three seasons with the Bengals, Dennard had a solid season in 2017. He rotated as the team’s No. 2 and No. 3 corner, based on injuries, but contributed in a number of different ways, nonetheless.
Dennard finished with 85 total tackles, two sacks, two interceptions (including a pick-six against the Ravens) and six passes defended.