The Cincinnati Bengals got their first real look at Joe Burrow this summer during Thursday night’s preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Burrow played 15 snaps with the Bengals’ first-team offense before sitting down for the night — the most in his entire preseason career. While the two-time Pro Bowl quarterback called his 2025-26 debut “average,” the tape showed plenty to like for Cincinnati.
“Today was average,” Burrow told reporters after the 34-27 loss at Lincoln Financial Field. “But overall, I’m happy with where I’m at. Next week, I’d like to be a little better.”
Against the Eagles’ backups, Burrow connected on 9-of-10 passes for 123 yards and two touchdowns. It was the first extended preseason action of his career, and he made it count as he knows how.
“It’s good to play football again,” Burrow said. “The more reps you get at it, the better you’re going to be at it.. We’re 15 reps better.”
Head coach Zac Taylor and the Bengals’ staff understood the approach. Get Burrow and his starting group live work, build the offensive rhythm and get them all off the field healthy. Mission accomplished.
Burrow-Chase Connection as Strong as Ever for Bengals
If Thursday was any indication, Burrow and No. 1 target Ja’Marr Chase haven’t missed a beat. Chase hauled in a beautiful sideline pass from Burrow in the first quarter, and they locked in for another on a 36-yard touchdown
Burrow had previously voiced his displeasure over missed throws and opportunities at the start of Bengals training camp, but it’s clear he’s been gradually picking away at those rough edges with sharper timing.
“It was a good rep,” Burrow said. “Unbelievable play by him (Chase). Obviously he makes that play consistently, so just try to get that guy the ball.”
The workload was expected to be light. The Bengals have no reason to risk their starter for extended stretches in August. So far, he’s looked comfortable in the pocket, delivering several quick throws while facing one of the NFL’s deepest defensive fronts.
Burrow Is Setting A Different Tone Before Week 1 Vs. Browns
The general belief heading into the preseason each year is that franchise players like Burrow won’t go near the game field until it’s officially time. But as Taylor and the coaches have put it in camp, “fast starts” are the new theme of the Bengals.
Burrow’s changing the way teams and players view the preseason. Instead of avoiding the three games, he’s running forward, using every opportunity to improve and be in midseason form by Week 1.
The Bengals may have lost their fourth consecutive preseason game in two years, but they are only focused on how they’re benefitting. A confident, albeit unsatisfied Burrow is leading the charge toward a massive 2025-26 campaign.
All starters are expected to sit out the preseason finale against the Indianapolis Colts on August 23, which means Burrow’s last snaps could come under the lights against the Washington Commanders in Week 2.
Opening the regular season against the Cleveland Browns on September 7, Burrow and the Cincinnati starters’ extended action was designed to make sure they’re ready for the bigger stage. So far, it’s looking good.
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