In our third training camp session, we saw serious breakthroughs for players as they fought through adversity and struggled to find success. Quarterback Joe Burrow developed a more take-every-sharp-turn-at-120-mph mentality, predicated on finding throwing windows, especially following a fire-breathing practice. His teammates — led by wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase — rallied around him to keep the team atmosphere positive, helping everyone stay locked in on overcoming the adversity they’d encountered.
Burrow’s determination was clear on the play as he attempted to evade linebacker Logan Wilson. For all his efforts, he was left lying on the turf. This moment really underscored just how grueling practices can be as players get ready for the season ahead. Burrow’s past accomplishments accentuate his amazing talents. Just like he did on a short touchdown against the Ravens in their second meeting a year ago.
Along with these tremendous performances, injuries have taken a toll on the availability of players. Long pass-catcher tight end Mike Gesicki earned an invite to the Senior Bowl but will miss practice this week after suffering a minor hamstring tweak during Saturday’s practice. Defensive back Cam Taylor-Britt missed practice for load management, while safety Dax Hill‘s health and preseason workload are being closely monitored.
Burrow’s Aggressive Mentality
Whether that’s offensive line issues or receiving corps injuries, Joe Burrow’s desire to get back to form has been the focus this week. He primarily made a focused effort to aim more consistently to aggressive throwing windows on the practice field. This decision reflected his testimony to excellence and his field generalship.
“…but when you’re having fun, you’re rolling.” Burrow’s demeanor was especially key to keeping spirits high, as expressed by teammate Ja’Marr Chase. “I told him don’t dwell on it because, let Tee make two of those catches, he wouldn’t be feeling like that,” Chase remarked. His words of encouragement are a testament to the positive culture cultivated by the team.
Burrow’s poise under pressure stood out even in moments of adversity, like when he was forced to escape the pressure of Logan Wilson. After the impact, even though his feet have landed, he is still intent on his routine execution. “He’s turned it into a strength of his game. That’s exciting to see,” Burrow commented regarding his development.
Rising Stars in Training Camp
As training camp progresses, DJ Ivey has emerged as a standout performer, impressing the coaching staff with multiple pass deflections throughout practice. His strong performance really stands out. It demonstrates that he is capable of being a key contributor to the team’s defensive schemes.
Head coach Zac Taylor recognized Ivey’s contributions when balancing player workloads. “There will be some days we just pull him back to make sure we’re not going too far, too fast,” Taylor stated regarding overall player management.
Defensive coordinator Al Golden weighed in on this same competitive edge that’s been on display throughout training camp. They got nothing to lose, we got everything to lose. They have an edge,” Golden remarked, highlighting the motivation fueling players like Ivey and others striving to secure their positions.
Managing Player Health and Team Dynamics
Injuries have taken a big toll on this team, as they’ve lost several key players as they head into the season. Mike Gesicki’s absence this week after a hamstring tweak complicates matters at the tight end spot. His recovery will be key to the Bengals’ offensive plans long-term.
Cam Taylor-Britt’s load management sparked questions about his conditioning, after he missed another practice this week. The coaching staff is prioritizing player health as they prepare for the regular season. Aside from the big picture moves on defense, the health of rookie Dax Hill is key to this strategy.
Wide receiver Tee Higgins was listed as limited practice today. Preventing all soft-tissue injuries this close to Week 1 would be ideal. His team is likely stressed, given their limited timeframe. He spent the entire end of practice mostly watching and only occasionally stepping in to participate himself, a sign of a prudent approach to managing player load.
Noah Fant is still getting up to speed in the Bengals’ offense after making the switch from his former club. He kept his options open while considering his next steps. Now, he’s trying to learn the ropes and figuring out, first and foremost, how to fit into the Bengals’ system.
“I think there’s a lot of camaraderie right now. I think we’re all together. Everyone we’ve got here, we’re all having fun playing with each other and playing fast.” – Geno Stone
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