[jwplayer Ms1vBFZx]
Cincinnati Bengals news to start June understandably centers on Joe Burrow impressing everyone, Joe Burrow trying to organize workouts and a bit of unexpected trade drama.
Here’s a quick look at some of the news and notes to go with each item.
Burrow trying to set up workouts
This latest bit of news about Burrow trying to set up workouts isn’t the first time we’ve heard about it. But now it’s Auden Tate confirming Burrow is trying to make it work.
Trickier than it sounds given players still aren’t allowed back in team facilities and remain spread out all over the country.
But leave it to a leader of Burrow’s stature to keep trying to set something up. We’ve got a feeling he’ll somehow make it happen with at least some of his guys before training camp.
Coaches impressed with Burrow
The odd circumstances with the all-virtual offseason isn’t stopping Burrow from impressing his coaches.
While the team isn’t going through in-person reps, Burrow is still showing a strong sign of understanding his pre-snap responsibilities.
That’s about as good as it gets when it comes to Burrow news given the current circumstances. If this translates, it means he’ll be plenty ready for the mental side of things by the time he shows up at Paul Brown Stadium.
Veteran says Jessie Bates is a rising star
Shawn Williams singled out Jessie Bates as a rising star.
Not hard to see why. The ballhawk safety had his hiccups last year, but it’s pretty clear to most in the building he has tremendous upside. With better surroundings next season and his natural development curve, Williams could end up looking like a genius sooner than later.
Burrow’s teammates impressed, too
It isn’t just Bengals coaches impressed with Burrow — don’t forget the impression he’s left on teammates.
When veteran wideouts are speaking up about how great the new guy is, it’s probably a good sign. If Burrow is logging into online sessions and unafraid to take command of his offense despite not really meeting most of the guys in person yet, it’s a hint all the whispers about his abilities as a leader are true.
A quick no-nonsense approach from the rookie that veterans notice also means the offense could hit the ground running right away.
William Jackson trade musings
Let a new report tell it, the Bengals turned down multiple trade offers for William Jackson last year at the deadline.
Cincinnati can’t just up and give away a promising potential No. 1 corner because he played hurt last year and struggled right alongside the rest of the defense. He’s still a first-round product with big upside and the only holdover starter at corner from last year, which is experience they’ll need in the backend of the defense. If WJ3’s healthy, there is a good chance he’s going to prove he’s worth a second contract.
[vertical-gallery id=34397]