In the lead-up to the NFL opening week, all eyes are on the Cincinnati Bengals as they prepare to kick off their season at Paycor Stadium against the New England Patriots. This game marks the start of a new tradition for the Bengals, who will be taking the field in their vibrant orange uniforms. As the men in stripes gear up for the game, they are relying on several players from their 2023 draft class to make significant contributions.
One player who is expected to have a breakout season is Murphy, despite starting the season on injured reserve with a sprained MCL. The Bengals are optimistic about his future as an EDGE rusher, especially after he showed promise towards the end of his rookie season in 2023. With three sacks and 10 SOLO tackles under his belt, Murphy is poised to make a big impact once he returns to the field.
In addition to Murphy, safety Jordan Battle is another player to keep an eye on. While he may start the season in a backup role due to the presence of Geno Stone and Vonn Bell, there is potential for Battle to shine in the future. Investing in his stock now could pay off handsomely, especially if Bell decides to move on from the team in the future.
As for Jones, his performance as a punt returner in the previous season is well-documented. However, this year, fans can expect to see him take on a more prominent role as a wide receiver. Impressions from OTAs and training camp suggest that Jones is ready to step up and make an impact, potentially filling in behind veteran Trenton Irwin throughout the season.
With these promising sophomores in tow, the Bengals are looking to make waves in the 2024 season. Stay tuned for more updates as the season progresses, and keep an eye on these young talents as they make their mark in the NFL.
