Joe Burrow discusses leadership as the Bengals prepare to host the Buccaneers

The Cincinnati Bengals open their 2026 NFL season this week with a home game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Quarterback Joe Burrow, who turns 30 in December, enters the season focusing on his evolving leadership role within the locker room. Burrow acknowledged that while he has historically avoided being the vocal presence on his teams, he recognizes the necessity of that responsibility at this stage in his career. Head coach Zac Taylor indicated that the team is focused on avoiding the slow starts that have plagued previous seasons, emphasizing a goal of achieving a 1-0 record after the opening game. In other personnel news, former Bengals player Cody Ford participated in a workout with the Buffalo Bills on Tuesday after being released by Cincinnati in August. The organization also announced an updated game day menu featuring several new food options at the stadium.

• 10:00 AMYahoo Sports — Bengals News: Joe Burrow’s evolution