Cincinnati Bengals coach Zac Taylor has announced that some starters, including quarterback Joe Burrow, will play in the first preseason game against Tampa Bay on Saturday. Burrow, who has only participated in one preseason game over his four NFL seasons primarily due to injuries, expressed enthusiasm about getting these reps.
“I’m excited for it,” Burrow said. “I’m just looking forward to getting these reps.”
Taylor noted that he is uncertain about the duration or number of starters who will participate on Saturday. “Both the offense and defense will likely see action, but we’ll evaluate as we approach the game,” he explained.
He also mentioned that the defense is currently short-handed, referring to defensive end Cam Sample, who is out for the season with a torn Achilles tendon, and starting defensive ends Trey Hendrickson (chest bruise) and Sam Hubbard (knee), who is listed as day-to-day.
This game will mark Burrow’s first live-action since his 2023 season ended on November 10 due to surgery for a torn ligament in his throwing hand.
“I’m not where I want to be, but that’s true for many parts of our team right now,” Burrow said. “Training camp is a time for improvement, and we have three weeks left to accumulate reps and grow. I’m really happy with our progress.”
