Zac Taylor backs Orlando Brown Jr. after Burrow takes hit

The Cincinnati Bengals opened their preseason schedule on Thursday night, and the game brought immediate concern for the team's most important player. Quarterback Joe Burrow was hit during the contest after left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. was beaten around the edge. While preseason games are often used to evaluate depth and give younger players experience, the risk of injury to a franchise quarterback is always present. Burrow, who has dealt with significant injuries in the past, including a torn ACL in 2020 and a wrist injury that ended his 2023 season, is central to the Bengals' hopes for the upcoming season. The team has missed the playoffs for the last three seasons, and any setback for Burrow would severely damage their chances of returning to contention.

On Saturday, two days after the game, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor addressed the media and defended Brown, who is entering the final year of a four-year, $64 million contract signed in 2023. Taylor emphasized Brown's motivation and leadership, noting that Brown takes ownership when things do not go perfectly. Taylor also acknowledged that the entire offensive line and coaching staff are constantly looking for ways to improve and protect Burrow. The coach's comments were reported by Zach Pressnell of SI.com, and they reflect a desire to maintain confidence in a player who has been a key part of the offensive line since joining the team.

The incident has raised questions about the offensive line's ability to keep Burrow upright, especially given the team's recent struggles. The Bengals have not made the playoffs since the 2021 season, when they reached the Super Bowl. Since then, they have missed the postseason three consecutive times, and the pressure is mounting on Taylor and the entire organization. If the team fails to make the playoffs again this year, Taylor's job could be in jeopardy. The preseason hit serves as a reminder of the fine line between preparing for the regular season and risking the health of the team's most valuable asset.

Taylor's defense of Brown is not surprising, as coaches often publicly support their players to maintain morale and avoid creating distractions. However, the underlying concern remains: Burrow's ability to play every game is critical to the Bengals' success. The team has invested heavily in Burrow, and any prolonged absence would likely derail their season. The offensive line, which has been a point of emphasis in recent years, must perform at a high level to give Burrow time to make plays. The preseason game, while not meaningful in the standings, has highlighted a potential weakness that the team will need to address before the regular season begins.