Yahoo Sports Senior NFL Reporter Jori Epstein is out on the road covering training camps. Today’s stop: Cincinnati Bengals.
Joe Burrow has returned to 11-on-11 after tearing a ligament in his wrist last season. The Bengals are managing his workload, but he looks sharp as ever — and his receivers say he’s been extra detailed in his route requests since returning.
The Bengals’ veteran safeties will be defensive leaders, but seventh-round rookie Daijahn Anthony could be a future anchor piece. Through padless practice, which coaches often consider a passing camp, DC Lou Anarumo liked what he saw.
Ja’Marr Chase’s contract negotiations. The Pro Bowl WR is holding in as he awaits a new contract. The Bengals want to extend him before this season, a source told me. But do they want to pay what he believes he’s worth? For a team aiming to be more explosive this season, Chase is their surest route.
Joe Mixon has anchored the Bengals’ run game the last seven years. After they traded him to Houston, no more this year. Zack Moss and Chase Brown received the most first-team carries when I was at practice. Padded practices and joint practices should decide the battle.
Andrei Iosivas caught four touchdowns in 15 receptions as a sixth-round rookie. When I visited practice Monday, he was working with the first-team offense. WRs coach Troy Walters told me Iosivas’ speed, size and catch strength are impressing him. The longer Chase holds in, the more chances Iosivas has to flash.
Explosive plays are also on the Bengals defense’s mind after allowing the second-most plays of 20+ yards last season. They signed veteran safeties Geno Stone and Vonn Bell this season to elevate defensive communication they’ll need to thwart a tough slate of AFC quarterbacks.
• Back Geno Smith and Jaxon Smith-Njigba: The Miami Dolphins haven't faced many pass attempts this season, largely due to unusual game scripts. However, earl
Gambling content 21+. The New York Post may receive an affiliate commission if you sign up through our links. Read our editorial standards for more
• J.K. Dobbins faces a familiar foe: Dobbins has found significant success against the Steelers in the past. Among 20 running backs with at least 25 carries
Gambling content 21+. The New York Post may receive an affiliate commission if you sign up through our links. Read our editorial standards for more