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Joe Burrow expresses urgency for Bengals' 2026 season
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has expressed a heightened sense of urgency heading into the 2026 season, stating that the team must return to contention this year after missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.
Burrow highlighted significant defensive improvements following the acquisition of players such as Dexter Lawrence II, Bryan Cook, Boye Mafe, and Jonathan Allen. He noted that the defensive line's depth provides the team with more flexibility and leadership than in previous years.
On the offensive side, the Bengals are returning all 11 starters, including receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. However, the team faces ongoing questions regarding roster management, as key players including cornerback DJ Turner, safety Dax Hill, and running back Chase Brown have yet to secure new contract extensions.
Entities
Cincinnati Bengals · Dexter Lawrence II · Ja’Marr Chase · Joe Burrow · Tee Higgins
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Joe Burrow believes the 2026 season is the year for the Bengals to return to contention. woub.org
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Bengals acquired Dexter Lawrence II, Bryan Cook, Boye Mafe, and Jonathan Allen to bolster the defense. woub.org
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Bengals have missed the playoffs for the past three seasons. woub.org
- [○ 1 SOURCE] All 11 offensive starters are returning for the 2026 season. woub.org
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The team has yet to secure contract extensions for DJ Turner, Dax Hill, or Chase Brown.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Burrow expressed confidence in the team's defensive depth following offseason additions.