Zac Taylor discusses why the Bengals chose not to hold joint training camp practices.

Cincinnati Bengals Opt Out of Joint Practices

This year, it’s not unusual for teams in the NFL to have joint practices during training camp. However, the Cincinnati Bengals are one of only three teams choosing to skip this practice.

Head coach Zach Taylor has expressed his belief that there are more effective ways to prepare players for the upcoming season. He favors getting his likely starters, including quarterback Joe Burrow and star wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, some game time in preseason matches. In their first preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, both Burrow and the wide receivers actively participated, something Taylor sees as more beneficial than engaging in joint practices.

“We are grateful that we haven’t done that this year,” Taylor shared with reporters. “It’s really beneficial to implement some strategies and make adjustments, rather than focusing on a specific opponent.”

Furthermore, Taylor noted that the Bengals plan to hold scrimmage-style competitions between their offense and defense during the six practices leading up to their next preseason game. “I think we really need this group now, and that’s how this camp has hit us this year,” he remarked.

As training progresses, Taylor emphasized the competitive landscape for the offensive line, particularly with players like Lucas Patrick and Cody Ford vying for secure positions while experimenting with different combinations. He described the situation as “very open” and highlighted that many opportunities remain. With eight practices and two games ahead, there’s still much to explore.