CINCINNATI — New quarterback Joe Burrow showed off his accuracy and arm strength while teammates praised his poise and leadership as the media got its first look at the NFL’s top draft pick at Bengals training camp on Monday.
The Heisman Trophy winner checked all the boxes, shining in 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills on the practice fields outside Paul Brown Stadium. Burrow connected several times with veteran receiver A.J. Green and exhibited the skills that led LSU to an undefeated season and the national championship.
Burrow’s teammates have already seen enough of the Ohio native to proclaim him the real deal.
“I think everyone is impressed with how he communicates, how he understands the offense,” said defensive end Sam Hubbard. “When the No. 1 offense is out there, it’s a challenge. They run on all cylinders. It’s not something you’d expect to see with a rookie quarterback.”
"He's a leader, No. 1. He's very vocal. He's demonstrative," said guard Michael Jordan. "When he's calling the plays, it's very clear he knows what he's doing."
“Honestly, I forget sometimes he’s a rookie. He carries himself real well,” said guard Xavier Su’a -Filo. “The biggest thing with young players, I think, is confidence, and I’ve really been impressed with that.”
Green, who missed the entire 2019 season with torn ankle ligaments, appeared to tweak his left hamstring and spent some time stretching it out.
Nose tackle Renell Wren had to be carted off the field during 11-on-11 drills, but the team offered no information about his injury.
RB Rodney Anderson, a sixth-round draft pick in 2019, failed his physical and was waived.
Players will work out in pads for the first time on Tuesday.
