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Bengals and Bears hold joint practice amid Joe Burrow's championship push
The Cincinnati Bengals and Chicago Bears held a joint practice in Cincinnati, providing a high-intensity scrimmage for both teams ahead of their preseason matchup. The Bengals' defense stood out, highlighted by defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, who recorded an interception by tipping a pass to himself. Bears quarterback Caleb Williams faced significant pressure, including sacks by Myles Murphy.
Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow expressed a sense of urgency regarding the 2026 season, stating he is treating it as a “now or never” opportunity to pursue a championship. He noted his desire to instill intensity within the organization to end the team's recent postseason drought. Bears head coach Ben Johnson praised Burrow’s skill, describing him as a “surgeon” with excellent pocket awareness and ability to dissect defenses.
In terms of roster management, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor confirmed that starters will not play in the upcoming preseason finale on August 28, focusing instead on developmental players and rookies. The Bears' practice also saw various injuries and physical skirmishes, including a notable hit by Jeremiah Martin on rookie tight end Sam Roush.
Entities
Ben Johnson · Caleb Williams · Chicago Bears · Cincinnati Bengals · Dennis Allen · Halas Hall · Ja'Marr Chase · Joe Burrow · Zac Taylor
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Dennis Allen described defensive end Marcus Davenport as a disruptive player despite recent health concerns.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Tackle Kiran Amegadjie sustained an injury during a running play at training camp.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen expects the joint practice against the Bengals to be a significant test for the defense.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Quarterback Tyson Bagent remained sidelined during practice due to a hamstring injury.
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Chicago Bears are scheduled for a joint practice with the Cincinnati Bengals at Kettering Health Practice Fields.