What's Happening?
The Cincinnati Bengals have high expectations for rookie Dylan Fairchild, who was drafted in April to be the starting left guard. During the first two weeks of training camp, Fairchild has shown promise and is expected to play at least one quarter in the preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. Offensive line coach Scott Peters emphasized the need for Fairchild to adapt quickly to the professional level, likening the transition from college to the NFL to moving from checkers to chess. Fairchild, who was a standout at Georgia, is adjusting to the speed of the pro game and is focused on improving his footwork. The Bengals are keen to strengthen their offensive line after quarterback Joe Burrow was sacked 48 times last season.
AD
Why It's Important?
The development of Dylan Fairchild is crucial for the Bengals as they aim to protect their star quarterback, Joe Burrow, and improve their offensive line's performance. With Burrow being one of the most sacked quarterbacks last season, enhancing the line's effectiveness is vital for the team's success. Fairchild's progress could significantly impact the Bengals' ability to compete in the upcoming season, potentially reducing the number of sacks and improving overall offensive efficiency. The team's decision to give starters ample preseason playing time reflects their commitment to avoiding a slow start, as experienced last season.
What's Next?
The Bengals will continue to evaluate Fairchild and other starters during the preseason, with a focus on ensuring they are ready for the regular season opener. Coach Zac Taylor has indicated that the starters will receive significant playing time in the preseason to build cohesion and communication. The team will monitor Fairchild's adaptation to the professional game and his ability to meet the high expectations set for him. The upcoming games will be critical in determining the final lineup and ensuring the team is prepared for the challenges of the regular season.
