The Bengals go all in on All.
Punter Ryan Rehkow continues to be the star of the Cincinnati Bengals’ rookie class, despite not actually being drafted. For the second straight game, he has looked impressive despite being used much less frequently this week.
One player being used much more frequently is Erick All. The rookie tight end saw a massive increase in snaps this week and continued to impress as a blocker whilst hauling in four passes for 32 yards. All may be the most well-rounded tight end on the roster and his increased usage is a promising sign.
We all got our wish as rookie wide receiver Jermaine Burton finally got a couple of targets, hauling in a 47-yarder to start off the second half. Burton may not be ready for a starting role, but his big play ability gives the team an explosive option opposite Ja’Marr Chase. Giving him an increased role each week makes a lot of sense.
Defensive back Daijahn Anthony has carved out a role for himself on defense. This week he had two penalties, both costly. One negated an interception by DJ Turner, and the other allowed the Chiefs to convert the final 4th down and set up the winning field goal. Neither of these penalties was egregious, but the timing could not have been much worse. Defensive backs need to have a short memory, and Anthony will need to show supreme mental toughness to overcome this one, but it sounds like his team has rallied around him.
UDFA linebacker Maema Njongmeta continues to get significant work on special teams, while cornerback Josh Newton and even center Matt Lee are getting a little work in this unit. Defensive end Cedric Johnson and tight end Tanner McLachlan were once again healthy scratches, while a number of other Bengals rookies continue to struggle with injury.
