Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow provided a brutally honest take on wide receiver Jermaine Burton, whose rookie season was filled with controversy.
Joe Burrow Has Praise for WR Burton
Unless you were paying specifically close attention to the Bengals’ wideout room last season, you might not have noticed that Burton struggled handily, both on and off the field. Despite his performance and other issues, however, Burrow has recently spoken up, saying that the soon-to-be second-year receiver has matured.
According to Cincy Jungle, Burrow said about Burton during a recent OTA session, “I think he’s stepped up this year so far, has taken it very seriously, and has matured, it seems like.” He added, “That’s exciting to see. Based on the conversations we’ve had, he’s in a good spot mentally and physically.”
When Burton slipped to the Bengals in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, he entered the league with some public character concerns. The hope was that some of the veteran leadership on the squad, such as Burrow, as well as wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, could mentor him.
And now, while it certainly wasn’t the case in 2024, it seems that Burton might be taking the next step. Burrow added that, “he’s been working hard, which is exciting to see.”
Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, WR3?
Earlier this offseason, the Bengals secured pillars Chase and Higgins for the next few years, following some speculative contract talks. Nevertheless, there is still room for a wide receiver 3 on the roster, where Burton hopes to land.
Last season, Andrei Iosivas was the most productive WR not named Higgins or Chase, but he is yet to lock up the WR3 spot. Of course, no one thinks of the spot to be a major position of need for the Bengals, but having another talented wideout, particularly on a rookie deal, is always helpful.
Burrow, “In a Good Spot”
After arriving at voluntary camp a few weeks ago, Burrow spoke on how he’s been feeling so far this spring. “This is the best that I’ve felt in the offseason,” he said.
“Just like every year, trying to get better, trying to get stronger, faster, healthier,” Burrow continued. “Try to find ways that you can optimize your health throughout the whole season, not hurt as much. I’m in a good spot.”
And of course, most encouraging, Burrow said about his arm, “It’s better this time of the year than it was last time at the same time,” and that’s only good for anyone catching the ball.
