The Cincinnati Bengals started training camp on Wednesday, with Joe Burrow’s new look hardly the only thing worth discussing.
Along the way, observers could find plenty of notable info, such as roles on offense for new players.
Some quick-hitters:
- Mike Gesicki. Mike Gesicki…and Mike Gesicki. Maybe the name put forth the most on the first day. His type of talent at tight end (or lined up in the slot) will be a boon for Joe Burrow. And his versatility means more under-center looks and the like, which we’re already seeing.
- Tee Higgins looks great. What’s more interesting is hearing him talk about how he might’ve played too heavy last year, which could have led to injuries. Now, he’s spent the offseason focusing on his body, which could be a great thing.
- The big touchdown to end the day belonged to RB Chase Brown. He’s a massive breakout candidate who would’ve had more snaps last year, were it not for an untimely injury.
- A one-handed grab by Jermaine Burton was flashy but is also a sign of things to come with him. The rookie might get more snaps in the slot than outsiders expect.
- Ja’Marr Chase already taking it easy probably isn’t a sign of an incoming extension when all signs point to that happening in 2025. Still, it’s pretty interesting, and Justin Jefferson already has his deal.
- Adding on to that, Burrow effectively said “that’s his business” when asked about Chase’s approach. So who knows?
- One of the early themes is letting wideouts prove they can go in new spots. Andrei Iosivas and others were getting slot reps, letting coaches see who can do what.
- Those anticipated under-center looks that they wanted to break in last year are out in full force already. Burrow lined up like that on Brown’s big touchdown run, even.
- Daijahn Anthony, a rookie, had the first pick of camp. That safety depth spot could be more competitive than anticipated.
- Trent Brown is on the NFI with “tightness” for now. Hard to imagine the veteran falls behind rookie Amarius Mims if he misses time during the first week, but it doesn’t hurt for the first-rounder to get the reps.
