Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow doesn’t figure to see a preseason field again this summer.
That’s by design — Burrow had the touchdown series in the preseason opener and will effectively take similar, borderline live-game reps in joint practices with two different teams over the next few weeks.
And let Burrow tell it, he’s ready for Week 1 even without more preseason reps.
“When game one comes, I’ll be ready,” Burrow said, according to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com. “It doesn’t matter if we have one or not. Another one is going to be nice, but I’ll be ready.”
Burrow added this: “These are the reps I haven’t had the last couple of years. The more reps you get before the season, the better you’ll be … I’m happy where I’m at and moving in the right direction.”
Burrow, across podcasts and other media appearances this summer, has made it clear that this is the best he’s ever felt before a season. This time, unlike past years, he’s not really nursing any injuries or dealing with pandemic restrictions.
Similarly, Burrow has remained adamant that the first preseason game and live reps against other teams in joint practices will pile up more game-like reps than he’s ever had during a training camp or preseason.
While there are some concerns about the timing of the offense with Ja’Marr Chase still sitting out amid his “hold-in” efforts, Burrow missing the last two preseason games shouldn’t leave fans with any sort of worry.
