Bengals: 5 questions that must be answered in training camp

Cincinnati Bengals training camp questions

Is Joe Burrow healthy enough yet to compete at the highest level?

Joe Burrow is a fierce competitor, and we all understand that. Yes, he’s been cleared for all football activities by the medical staff but if the Bengals decide to put Burrow on the field behind an untrusted, shaky offensive line, and if he plays zero preseason games (which remains up in the air), it may not be the most logical idea.

So far in camp, he’s been favoring the knee and hasn’t looked entirely comfortable in the brace. It’s understandable coming off the injury he went through, but could that mean he’s not healthy enough yet to compete at the highest level?

The Bengals have struggled on offense mightily so far in camp, and it is early but consistent days of error and miscues make you wonder if the Bengals are playing with fear of injury or if they are trying to force something that may not be ready yet.

There is no question Burrow’s rehab process and mentality have been elite throughout the last several months, but it was a very gruesome injury. Knowing he is the franchise cornerstone and the most essential player in orange and black since Carson Palmer, it should raise a red flag.

Again, I’m no doctor, but making sure he is safe behind the line and capable of competing at the best of his ability should be the main priority before letting him drop back, take hits, and throw 30 to 40 passes a game against very physical defenses in the division and around the league.