The Cincinnati Bengals went back out into the blistering sun for Day 2 of training camp today. After a scuffle occurred yesterday, you could easily have expected to see things boil over again today. However, I am happy to report we didn’t se anything more than the usual trash talking.
Here is what you missed from Day 2.
Jonathan Allen on rest day
Allen is quietly going to be a big part of this improved defensive line. His signing was overshadowed by the acquisition of Dexter Lawrence. The veteran should add a nice boost to the interior pass rush that was so lacking last season. Keeping him rested is a great call for a guy who has been around the league as much as he has.
Young linebackers show off
The position that fans will be watching the closest is easily linebacker. The Bengals opted not to bring in a veteran or draft competition for Demetrius Knight Jr. or Barrett Carter, who combined as the worst linebacking duo from last season. They were both rookies on a very bad defense, though. This is the kind of gamble that could make or break a season.
So far these two young linebackers have looked up to the challenge.
Oh Boye
Boye Mafe was brought in as one of the top available edge rushers from this class of free agency. Defensive coordinator Al Golden’s defense has not been shy about dropping edge rushers into coverage, and Mafe has experience doing it as well.
However, so far Burrow has been carving up this concept just about every time it has been thrown out there. It is the kind of play that might fool some younger quarterbacks, but is this really what we want to see Mafe doing?
Andrei Iosivas looking to take a step in contract year
Iosivas has always seemed on the cusp of being a guy at the Tyler Boyd level as a WR3. However, his up-and-down play the past couple of seasons has left some doubt if Cincinnati couldn’t do better at the position. The jury is still out, but he has looked pretty good so far.
Just some fun highlights
Leave a comment about what you are looking for from the Bengals in training camp going into Day 3!
