The Cincinnati Bengals opened training camp in Cincinnati as part of the leaguewide start to preparations for the 2026 season, and Bengals reporter Ben Baby is providing daily on-site coverage. The report will be updated frequently through the first full week of the preseason, which begins Aug. 13.
Ben Baby wrote that running back Chase Brown has emerged as a candidate for a contract extension. Quarterback Joe Burrow praised Brown’s versatility and explosiveness, saying, “Obviously we’re going to try to get the ball in No. 1 (Ja’Marr Chase’s) hands as many times as we can, but I think a close second is Chase Brown just because of how explosive he is and the things he can do with the ball in his hands.”
Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II drew attention during early practices. Burrow told reporters Lawrence “got back there pretty quick a couple of times” and “made some blind throws today because of how big he is,” according to the coverage. Burrow also said he remains nearly a year removed from his turf-toe injury and expects to continue wearing a protective plate in his shoe; “The foot feels great,” he added.
Ben Baby noted that all veterans officially reported for camp Tuesday, joining rookies who arrived the previous Saturday. The report highlighted ongoing contract situations involving cornerbacks Dax Hill and D.J. Turner and running back Chase Brown but said there were no anticipated disruptions to the start of camp.
The only notable absence from early practices was defensive tackle B.J. Hill, who began camp on the physically unable to perform list as he recovers from offseason surgery. The Bengals expect Hill to be ready by Week 1, the report said.
