Bengals to play starters in preseason opener against Lions

The Cincinnati Bengals plan to have their starters take the field in their preseason opener against the Detroit Lions on August 13, 2026. Head coach Zac Taylor indicated the initial playing time for starters will be decided closer to game day. Joe Burrow, noted for his performance in previous preseasons, expressed a desire to have an early start after minicamp. The Bengals' upcoming game follows two home games, with Chicago on August 22 and Philadelphia on August 28, which will be nationally televised by CBS.

• 2:17 AMYahoo Sports — Bengals will play starters in preseason opener vs. Detroit Lions