Training camp has begun in Cincinnati, with the Bengals hoping to rebound after a poor 2023 season. By all reports, the Bengals’ camp has started off well, with star quarterback Joe Burrow looking like his old self after suffering a season-ending wrist injury last season that necessitated surgery, and a couple of unproven players already making an impression.
However, the opening of camp in Cincinnati has not been without its challenges. There have been a few issues, albeit minor ones. Here is a peek at them.
Injuries
Injuries are a normal part of football. They cannot be avoided, and they are handled with prudence and patience, especially during training camp. Many training camp absences due to injury are merely precautionary.
thus the same ailment may not keep the player out of a regular-season game. That is why a player missing a few practices during camp is usually not cause for panic, unless the injury is significant.
The Bengals have been dealing with some injuries early in camp, but none appear to be catastrophic. Most notably, both starting defensive ends, Sam Hubbard and Trey Hendrickson, were restricted early in camp due to minor ailments. According to Bengals coach Zac Taylor, both players are on day-to-day status.
Taylor plainly isn’t concerned about his defensive tackles, and you, the viewer, shouldn’t be either. Both guys should be available when it counts the most. Their injuries are unlikely to be the last at training camp in Cincinnati.
Star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who is eligible for a contract extension, reported to training camp but has not participated in the first few days, raising concerns. Chase has yet to talk with media members, however when questioned if his lack of involvement was due to dissatisfaction with his contract, he responded, “no comment.”
Chase could have ended any conjecture right then, but he decided not to, so the questions will remain. Zac Taylor has stated that he and Chase are on the same page and have a plan in place, but Bengals supporters are hopeful that the plan includes Chase practicing with his teammates soon.
Again, Taylor does not appear concerned, and it is encouraging to hear that Chase has been an active and engaged teammate early in camp, despite his lack of participation. His absence has definitely not reached the level of distraction yet. However, the matter will continue to be monitored, especially given Chase’s overall importance to Cincinnati’s offensive onslaught.
