As training camp opened for the Cincinnati Bengals, all eyes were on Joe Burrow. QB1 is fully cleared for contact per head coach Zac Taylor and that’s music to the ears for all of Bengaldom. Burrow was sharp on his first day back with the full team present as he’ll look to stack consecutive good days with the training staff closely monitoring his wrist. In the opening session of the 2024 NFL season, Burrow was doing it all as noted by Paul Dehner Jr. from the Athletic. Based on all that number nine has endured last season, this is all you could hope for at this stage in recovery. Taylor has also noted they will give Burrow occasional rest days in camp and throughout the regular season to try and keep him as healthy as possible over the long haul.
Early drills for Burrow.
Zac Taylor said any holding back of Burrow early in camp would be for a day, not limiting in practice he’s already participating.
So, we may see a day off here and there early, but when he’s out here, he’s doing it all. pic.twitter.com/uYaTh6EQrd
— Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) July 24, 2024
Joe Burrow Sharp on Day 1 of Training Camp
The Real Joe Burrow
Even though Burrow is sporting the new slim shady haircut and is more muscular, those are the only new aspects to discuss for the Bengals signal caller. Otherwise, he still looks solid, and moves well in the pocket and when rolling out. If you are wondering about the arm strength, that box also seems to be checked, and not a problem with Burrow putting plenty of juice on the ball in the first 11-on-11 period.
Deep ball to Tee Higgins overthrown.
Notes:
– Burrow under center
– Play action fake, Zack Moss pass protecting
– Dax Hill matched-up with Tee Higgins on outside
– Amarius Mims running with 1st team offense at RT
– Sheldon Rankins busts through – Forces quick throw – Possibly a… pic.twitter.com/P5VEFkNtSU— Caleb Noe (@CalebNoeTV) July 24, 2024
Newly acquired tight end Mike Gesicki was targeted early and often as he will play an integral role in the offense this season as well as sophomores Andrei Iosivas and Charlie Jones who caught several passes from Burrow in the last passing sessions of the day.
If the Bengals want to get where the entire fan base and the city of Cincinnati want them to go, they will need their best players to step up in big moments and their franchise quarterback to stay healthy. The NFL season is a grind, and today was a good day for everyone, especially the most famous man in stripes.
Main Photo: Phil Didion/The Enquirer-USA TODAY NETWORK
