The Cincinnati Bengals have their home opener against the Baltimore Ravens Week 2, and the Ruler of the Jungle for the game is going to be none other than long-time Bengal A.J. Green, who just retired as a member of the team.
“I’m honored to come back,” Green said.
He will be leading the “Who Dey” chant before the kickoff at 1 p.m. in his return to what is now Paycor Stadium. Cincinnati fans were extremely excited to hear the former star wide receiver would be returning to the stadium.
Green played for the Bengals for nine years and amassed 9,430 yards and 65 touchdowns which are both second in franchise history behind Chad Johnson.
He commented on the current Bengals team before his return and said there’s nothing he’s able to teach them since they have already played in a Super Bowl. He also had high praise for Joe Burrow, saying they will come back from their slow start with him at the helm.
“He still has to get the feel back, it’s a long season,” Green said. “They’re going to be fine. They have a great defense and a great offense, and they’re led by one of the greatest, and that’s Joe. I call him a young Tom Brady, the way he carries himself… They’ve got the same demeanor.”
Extremely high praise for the Bengals quarterback from a player that is not far removed from the game, and played against Brady.
Green officially retired in February after two seasons with Arizona and this will be his first time back in the stadium since he left for the Cardinals.
“I call him a young Tom Brady, the way he carries himself… They’ve got the same demeanor.” – A.J. Green on Joe Burrow
Game Preview | @PaycorInc pic.twitter.com/WY5kuQP0UO
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) September 15, 2023