Joe Burrow, the Cincinnati Bengals' star quarterback, is set to return to full-contact practice as training camp begins Wednesday after a significant recovery period.
Back in Action
This development is especially notable following Burrow's wrist surgery, which took place on November 27, 2023. The surgery addressed a torn ligament in his right wrist, an injury he sustained during a game against the Baltimore Ravens on Nov. 16, 2023.
Burrow's return to full participation in training camp is a pivotal moment for the Bengals. New offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher, who recently transitioned from his previous role as quarterbacks coach, has expressed great confidence in Burrow's readiness.
Pitcher noted that Burrow has worked diligently on his physical and mental conditioning in preparation for the upcoming season.
The coordinator stressed that Burrow's presence in training camp is essential to the Bengals' preparation and overall success, underscoring the quarterback's role in shaping the team's offensive strategies and dynamics.
Head coach Zac Taylor, while not yet confirming whether Burrow or other key players will receive special accommodations during training camp or preseason games, has seen positive signs in recent months.
Taylor's remarks have been encouraging and he maintains an optimistic outlook regarding Burrow's readiness and performance for the new season.
History of Challenges
Burrow's injury history has been marked by notable challenges. In his 2020 rookie season, he suffered a significant knee injury while being knocked down during a game against Washington Football Team in Week 11. This injury required extensive rehabilitation, but did not prevent Burrow from starting the 2021 season.
The following year, in 2022, Burrow faced a setback when he was sidelined for the entire training camp due to appendicitis, affecting his initial preparation for the season. In addition, during the second day of training camp in 2023, Burrow experienced a calf muscle strain.
Although this injury did not force him to miss regular season games, it did affect his mobility and performance in the early part of the season.
The Bengals' offensive scheme is undergoing several changes this season, further highlighting the importance of Burrow's full participation. With Dan Pitcher now at the helm as offensive coordinator, the team is poised to introduce a new starting running back, likely Zack Moss, and a new right offensive tackle, Trent Brown.
In addition, the Bengals will have to adjust to a new No. 3 receiver following the departure of Tyler Boyd in free agency. Pitcher emphasized the crucial role Burrow plays in integrating these new elements into the offensive scheme.
His leadership and presence is expected to significantly impact the effectiveness and cohesiveness of the offense as the team adapts to these changes.
Guess who's back 🎶 pic.twitter.com/dwHy2zymH2
- Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) July 23, 2024
Other Negotiations
Another key storyline for Bengals training camp is the ongoing contract negotiations for wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase. Chase, who is currently under contract through the 2025 season, is expected to seek a substantial long-term deal.
This deal is anticipated to be similar to the four-year, $140 million contract recently secured by Justin Jefferson with the Minnesota Vikings. Bengals owner Mike Brown and Duke Tobin, the director of player personnel, have made Chase's contract negotiations a priority.
They are fully aware of the current market rates for elite wide receivers and are working to negotiate a deal that aligns with the team's financial strategy and long-term goals.
Tobin has indicated that the Bengals are well aware of contract figures for other key players and are considering what makes sense for the team's future. Discussions with Chase's representatives are ongoing, with the goal of finalizing a contract that is mutually beneficial to both the player and the team.
In addition to these key developments, the Bengals recently signed Amarius Mims, their first-round draft pick. Mims, an imposing 6-foot-8, 340-pound offensive tackle from the University of Georgia, is expected to make an immediate impact on the team's offensive line.
His addition is seen as a significant boost to the Bengals' line rotation, improving the team's overall blocking capabilities and providing valuable depth to the offensive line. The move is expected to bolster the team's offensive output and contribute to its success in the upcoming NFL.
