[jwplayer Ms1vBFZx]
It isn’t uncommon to hear it suggested Joe Burrow has one of the better supporting casts for a No. 1 pick in recent memory.
That’s likely true given some of the talent on the current Cincinnati Bengals roster. But some of it comes with a catch — there are a whole lot of “ifs” about the idea.
One big “if” is health. We know A.J. Green can be a No. 1 wideout, provided he’s on the field. And John Ross has shown plenty of flashes, but he has to be able to stay on the field.
Otherwise, we know Joe Mixon is one of the better backs in the league and we know Tyler Boyd can flirt with No. 1 wideout production even in the worst of circumstances.
Those ideas in mind, it’s interesting to see Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox rank Burrow’s supporting cast 19th compared to the rest of the NFL:
“High on potential and with a few proven assets, the Cincinnati skill-position group should help make Burrow’s transition to the NFL easier. The proverbial cupboard is not bare, and this group could approach top-10 status if Green returns to form and Higgins reaches his potential early.”
There’s a key note in there: “…this group could approach top-10 status…”
If luck finally smiles on the Bengals a bit in the injury department and offensive line play improves, Burrow’s transition could be easier than expected and in turn, the team could play much better than anticipated.
Final answer on the supporting cast? It remains up in the air, but middle of the pack given the circumstances before the season even starts is pretty good for a rookie passer.
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