The Cincinnati Bengals aren’t at the Super Bowl this year, but their presence can be felt in some of the commentary around the game itself. 

Cincinnati just missed the playoffs, with another pathetic start to a season, the culprit of a lost campaign and multiple coach firings. But it was a near-miss after rounding into form and teams like the Kansas City Chiefs were well aware of what was going on for Joe Burrow and Co.

Case in point, Chiefs superstar Chris Jones bringing up the Bengals when asked about the toughest competition in the AFC.

“I’m gonna say the Cincinnati Bengals,” Jones said in footage captured by reporter Daniel Alameda. “They’re always at the coast. Unfortunately, injuries have played a huge part in their lack of success. I have so much respect for the Cincinnati Bengals.”

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Jones did go on to mention the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens too. But it speaks volumes that the Bengals were the first team that came to his mind — and he looped back to them in the answer, mentioning that their prior Super Bowl appearance showed they already have what it takes to get there.

All the Bengals have to do? Carefully walk the chaotic tightrope that is this offseason and they can prove Jones right.