Bengals Podcast: Rookies and Big Guys

The Bengals’ rookie class was on full display on Thursday night, with all six draftees and several UDFAs seeing action. Matt and Willie talk about what they saw from these youths.

Of course, the big name that everyone is talking about is Shemar Stewart. His Dad has a Thanos chain, but the “blip” in his young career caused by his bro of an agent is now over. Stewart is here, and on Thursday night, he made it clear that he is ready to contribute in a big way.

Matt and Willie discuss his performance and what his rookie campaign could look like. Then they talk about defensive tackle Howard Cross III, who saw an unexpected amount of action. Cross’ performance on Thursday has met with mixed reviews, but he has a lot of buzz in the building.

Stepping back four yards, we come to the linebacker position where rookie Demetrius Knight made the start next to veteran Logan Wilson. Fellow rookie Barrett Carter saw significant action with the twos. Both will be expected to contribute to the Bengals’ defense this season. What type of first impression did they make?

Now, let’s talk about the offensive line. Rookies Dylan Fairchild and Jalen Rivers had very different nights. Fairchild seemed as snug as a glove at the left guard position, which is to say that he looked comfortable. Rivers had a bit more turbulence at tackle and appears to have flipped spots with Cody Ford in the aftermath.

Overall depth on the offensive line is full of questions.

Questions like:

• Whatever happened to Matt Lee?
• What the heck are they doing with Cordell Volson?
• How confident are they in Devin Cochran?
• Will Jaxon Kirkland keep on keeping on?
• Will Seth McLaughlin get a shot to play?

Anyway, y’all should listen, like, subscribe, and tell your friends.

Be sure to subscribe to Bleav in Cincy to hear the latest from the whole crew on everything Cincinnati Bengals! In addition to Matt and Willie Know Ball, you’ll hear from the Orange and Black Insider, Bengal Jim and Friends, and Three-and-Out.

Who Dey!