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One of the best and most comprehensive features we offer every year is our Footballguys Preseason Updates. Every week this month, Bob Henry, Jason Wood, Clayton Gray, and their team of Footballguys Staffers cover every player that matters from every NFL team. It's 32-plus pages of some of the most comprehensive coverage you'll find. It's probably worth the Footballguys Premium Subscription by itself.
Updates from Week 4
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Joe Burrow played extensively in the first two preseason games but was held out of the preseason finale against the Colts, along with all the starters and many key backups. He looks more prepared to start fast than at any point in his NFL career. Along with injuries, slow starts have been the one blemish on Burrow's resume. He has a career record of 17-3 in Week 13 or later games (including the playoffs). Jake Browning has had the best camp of his tenure in Cincinnati and is entrenched as the backup. Desmond Ridder had a chance to earn a practice squad role with a strong preseason, but he failed to take advantage. He threw an awful interception against the Colts that may have sealed his fate. The team could look to add a QB3 to the practice squad once other teams make their cuts.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Chase Brown made a strong impact as a pass catcher in 2024 with 54 receptions, 38 of which came over the final eight weeks of the season. He is expected to be even more of a factor as a receiver in his third year. Brown has been a tough cover for linebackers out of the backfield and made a highlight-reel grab over Logan Wilson in the Bengals' final scrimmage. "He's throwing it more to him this camp than in years past," said Wilson of Burrow's connection with Brown. "He's a receiving threat everywhere on the field…Just adding one more monster to the fire they have on offense. He's going to be a problem." In addition to his receiving ability, Brown has also made strides in other areas. "I'd say absolutely improved as a pass protector. The nuances of it, the technique of it," head coach Zac Taylor said. "The eye progression of it has improved over the early part of last season, all the way through last season, and you feel outstanding about it. He's always been a really good runner for us." Taylor also praised Brown's growth as a pass catcher. "When I say route runner, I'm not talking about coming out of the backfield on choice routes and all that stuff…[I'm talking about] splitting out as a receiver and having a real understanding of what our receivers go through and what Joe is going to see." To help limit Brown's workload, the Bengals will use Samaje Perine on plays that require the running back in pass protection. Rookie Tahj Brooks has exceeded expectations as a receiver out of the backfield and provides insurance if Brown misses time. Gary Brightwell and Kendall Milton have had flashes and should land on the practice squad.
