Who Dey notes: Bengals’ Mixon delivers scare, Johnson’s back
By Emile Pierce
The Cincinnati Bengals are going through a tough week of injuries. Though none of the situations appear to be serious, it’s time for caution.
Nothing signals the return of football like training camp. The sounds of thumping pads, coaches screaming at players and pictures of practices. But, there’s an aspect of camp that most fans could do without: the injuries. In a matter of days, the Bengals have had scares that could cause major setbacks in the bounce back plan. Safety George Iloka suffered a knee injury and is expected to miss a month. Now, comes news of Joe Mixon injuring his foot. This is not news that Bengals Nation wants to hear.
Mixon’s injury comes at a time when hopes are high for the Bengals to have a huge turnaround. With the running game in need of a huge shot of adrenaline, Mixon has to be in the lineup.
According to The Cincinnati Enquirer’s Jim Owczarski, Mixon was able to walk it off but was done for the day.
Per multiple sources, Mixon shouldn’t be out that long. Knowing Marvin Lewis and the Bengals’ brain trust, the move was to be sure nothing serious happens. After drafting Mixon in the second round, it’s not likely plans were to have him on the sidelines watching. With his rare ability to be both a threat running and catching, Cincinnati needs him as healthy as possible come opening day.
The Bengals’ preseason battles start in two weeks against Tampa Bay. Seeing him on the field would be nice. But, having him at 100 percent for Baltimore is definitely more important.
Back In The Saddle
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For those who have forgotten him, he’s back. Remember the guy that left the shores of the Ohio River to play in Tampa Bay? Well, that’s the guy who’s getting back into the groove.
Bengals fans will remember that Michael Johnson was the resident sack master, before chasing the money to Florida. While in Stripes, his biggest years were between 2011-13. He was able to stockpile 21 sacks. Since that time, he’s grabbed the quarterback 12.5 times.
If Johnson can manage to bring back the production of his glory days, the Bengals will have a nice situation to deal with. At 6′ 7”, Johnson’s wingspan and speed off the edge could be tough on defenders.
Although Johnson isn’t pegged to be a free agent this season, he will be on the market in 2019. If he wants to stay in Orange & Black, he’ll have a duel on his hands. Carl Lawson has looked good and is impressing coaches. The Bengals also have the often overlooked Jordan Willis on the come up.