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Cincinnati Bengals: 3 Bold Predictions For John Ross

By Damian Parson

CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 09: John Ross #15 of the Cincinnati Bengals run in after his catch for a touchdown, to trail 14-12 to the Los Angeles Chargers, during the second quarter at StubHub Center on December 9, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 09: John Ross #15 of the Cincinnati Bengals run in after his catch for a touchdown, to trail 14-12 to the Los Angeles Chargers, during the second quarter at StubHub Center on December 9, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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After dealing with two injury-riddled seasons to start his career, John Ross is optimistic while preparing for a healthy 2019 season.

John Ross entered the league in 2017 coming off his record-breaking combine performance. Pair his performance along with being selected ninth overall in the draft, and expectations were sky high. The former Washington Huskie hasn’t really lived up to them… Yet. However, the new Bengals coaching staff has had nothing but good things to say about Ross and we are on the path to the first game of the season Sunday afternoon in Seattle

Here are three last minute bold predictions for Ross heading into the regular season:

Ross will have multiple 50 yard receptions

It is common to expect big plays downfield when a guy has the 40-yard dash record at the NFL combine. Ross has caught only 21 passes in his first two seasons with the Bengals. Despite his field flipping speed, only three of those passes have went for 20-plus yards and none have exceeded 40-plus.

The third-year wideout is expected to be the deep threat for the Bengals offense. This offense has a rising star at running back in Joe Mixon and that can create favorable opportunities with play-action passing. In the Rams offense that Taylor had a hand in last season, Brandin Cooks caught 22 passes for 20-plus yards and four passes for 40-plus. Ross has the skill set to be used in a similar fashion to Cooks. The result could be an explosive one.

Ross will have 7 touchdowns again

In 2018, John Ross finished tied for first on the team with seven receiving touchdowns. Despite his smaller frame, Ross was a reliable option for his signal callers in the redzone.  Inside the 20 yard line, he posted eight receptions on 11 targets for 45 yards and five touchdowns.

He understands how to use his quickness and athletic prowess to create successful positioning. Factor in a full season with Andy Dalton, and Ross could replicate his touchdown success from 2018.

Play Action Passing is Key for the 2019 Bengals. light. Related Story

 Ross will compete in all 16 games

As stated prior, Ross has dealt with a plethora of injuries during his first two seasons. He hasn’t played more than 13 games in a single season yet. This season can be labeled as make or break for the former first round pick. A clean bill of health for the entire 2019 season is vital for Ross and the Bengals offense, especially with A.J. Green missing time.

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