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A cubist interpretation of a special teams ace making a crucial play, highlighting the often-overlooked importance of specialists in the NFL.Denver Today
Tycen Anderson, a safety drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2022, struggled to break into the starting lineup behind star players. Instead, he shifted his focus to becoming the best special teams player in the league, excelling in that role over the past two seasons. Despite Anderson’s success, the Bengals traded him to the Denver Broncos, a move that highlights the value of finding your niche in the NFL.
Why it matters
Anderson’s story is a testament to the importance of finding your role in the NFL, even if it’s not as a starter. His focus on special teams has made him a valuable asset, and his trade to the Broncos shows that teams are willing to acquire players who excel in specific areas. This could be a model for other players looking to make a name for themselves in the league.
The details
Anderson played in 41 games for the Bengals since being drafted and appeared in each of Cincinnati’s last 34 games, playing at least 75 percent of the team’s special teams snaps in the last two seasons. He recorded 16 special teams tackles last season, leading the Bengals in special teams stops in both 2023 (8) and 2024 (11). The Bengals’ decision to trade Anderson is notable because they won’t even get a compensatory pick for the move, highlighting the value of Anderson’s contributions on special teams.
Anderson was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2022.He played in 41 games for the Bengals since being drafted.Anderson appeared in each of Cincinnati’s last 34 games.He played at least 75 percent of the team’s special teams snaps in the last two seasons.Anderson recorded 16 special teams tackles last season, leading the Bengals in special teams stops in both 2023 (8) and 2024 (11).
The players
Tycen Anderson
A safety and special teams ace drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2022.
Jessie Bates III
A star safety for the Cincinnati Bengals.
Dax Hill
A star safety for the Cincinnati Bengals.
Vonn Bell
A star safety for the Cincinnati Bengals.
Jordan Battle
A star safety for the Cincinnati Bengals.
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What they’re saying
“I want to be the best special teams player in the league. There are a lot of great dudes, and I want to be brought up in the discussion and push for an All-Pro season.”
— Tycen Anderson, Safety and special teams ace
“The $1.5 million contract details mean the Bengals won’t even benefit from losing Anderson with a compensatory pick.”
— Nick Korte, Over the Cap analyst
What’s next
The Broncos will look to utilize Anderson’s special teams expertise as they aim to improve their special teams unit for the upcoming season.
The takeaway
Anderson’s story highlights the importance of finding your niche in the NFL, even if it’s not as a starter. His focus on special teams has made him a valuable asset, and his trade to the Broncos shows that teams are willing to acquire players who excel in specific areas. This could be a model for other players looking to make a name for themselves in the league.