Cincinnati Bengals: Top training camp battles to watch
Joe Mixon vs Jeremy Hill
Definitely one of the more interesting battles going on already, Joe Mixon and Hill will be competing for that starting job in the upcoming season. Mixon was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2017 NFL draft to compete and eventually take over the starting job from Hill in 2018/2019.
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Hill has been on the decline since his rookie season which is one of the main reasons the Bengals drafted Mixon. Mixon has the rare quickness and elusiveness that you normally don’t see in a bigger running back. Not only does Mixon have amazing elusiveness, he has really good catching ability. If you mix Hill’s running ability with quickness, and Bernard’s catching ability, you get Joe.
It may take a few preseason games for the Bengals to decide if Mixon is the better option at running back, but don’t be surprised if it happens earlier.
Mixon played so well in college that he was regarded as the best running back in the class with pure talent. His off-field problems aside, Mixon could end up being the biggest steal of the draft. If he can prove that he’s capable of taking the load early and that he’s a better option in training camp, expect Mixon to be the day one starter.