New Number New Start for John Ross

The Bengals speedy wideout  debuted his new number 11 jersey on his Instagram Friday, with the statement, “I know its different, cause I’m not the same.”

It is yet to be revealed how Ross came about acquiring the new jersey number. Bengals.com still lists Hunter Sharp,  a second year receiver out of the Utah State as number 11. Regardless. the move confirms speculation Ross would change his number for 2019.  As seen in a tweet below from @BengalsCaptain, some fans noted that the Bengals Pro Shop had number 11 Ross jerseys listed under newest items as early as May. Shortly after this was discovered, the listing was removed.

Bengals fans are divided in their opinions of the former combine superstar, but last season’s seven touchdown grabs gave hope to those who still believe in Ross. The new number appears to represent a new confidence that clearly coincides with the arrival of a new offensive scheme that looks to feature his abilities heavily.

With new head coach Zac Taylor bringing elements of the Los Angeles Rams prolific offense to Cincinnati, Ross is likely going to be asked to fill the  “Brandin Cooks” role in Taylor’s system. Ross has some good chemistry with quarterback Andy Dalton. He must be relieved to get a fresh start with a new coaching staff.

Notable players to wear number 11 for Cincinnati in the relatively recent past include Brandon LaFell, Jordan Shipley, Akili Smith, and everyone’s favorite bridge quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. That’s an eclectic group to say the least. There is plenty of room for Ross to make number 11 his own.