There are several players on the Cincinnati Bengals who need to use the first preseason game to make a statement and place themselves on the right trajectory for the rest of the season.
The preseason is traditionally a time where rookies and fringe roster players can get live game action and set themselves apart from their peers.
For the rookies, this will be the first NFL game action they get to experience. Understanding the pace and physicality of the game will help them be able to prepare mentally for the upcoming season.
For players fighting to stay on the roster, they will have the chance to show the coaching staff that they are the best choice by outplaying their competition. This is an exciting time for the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Bengals have plenty of both rookies and players fighting for roster spots. Facing the defending Super Bowl Champion, Tampa Bay Buccaneers will help Cincinnati see what their players can do against some of the best in the league.
With a shortened preseason this year, there is less time for players to make a statement so every game becomes that much more important. Here are the top three players who will need to put forward a strong first preseason game.