The Bengals are expecting Joe Burrow to return from injury for Week 1 and are working on a significant contract extension for him.
The Bengals have focused on building a talented roster around Joe Burrow and face the challenge of managing the salary cap with key players due for extensions.
The Lions are optimistic about their trajectory and have added dynamic players to their offense, emphasizing flexibility and communication on defense.
The Lions are evaluating their defensive line and linebacker groups, looking for improvements and contributions to an overall improved defense.
Deep dives
Joe Burrow's calf injury
Joe Burrow suffered a calf injury, but the team is not rushing his return and expects him to be back for Week 1.
Joe Burrow's contract extension
The team is working on a contract extension for Joe Burrow, and while the exact details are not available, it is expected to be a significant deal that surpasses any previous Bengals contract.
Building a strong roster around Joe Burrow
The Bengals have built a talented roster around Joe Burrow, with a strong offensive line, depth at wide receiver, and an ascending young defense. They have focused on draft, develop, and retain their star players, but the challenge will be managing the salary cap as key players become due for extensions.
Pressure to win now
While there is no explicit pressure to win now, the Bengals recognize that they have a prime opportunity with a talented roster and a rookie contract quarterback. They aim to take full advantage of this window while also planning for long-term success.
Rebuilding the Roster: The Lions' Offseason Strategy
The podcast episode discusses the Lions' offseason strategy and how they are rebuilding their roster. They have focused on adding young, dynamic players to their offense, such as Jameon Williams, San Juan Porta, and Jemir Gibbs, to enhance their already successful unit from last season. They are also evaluating their options with quarterback Jared Goff, considering a contract extension but also maintaining flexibility for the future. Overall, the Lions are optimistic about their trajectory and the potential for continued growth and success.
Shaping the Defense: The Lions' Secondary
The episode highlights the Lions' focus on rebuilding their secondary. They have brought in several new players, including Cam Sutton, Emmanuel Moseley, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, to improve their defensive backfield. The team is prioritizing versatility and flexibility, with players who can play multiple positions and provide different skill sets. The coaching staff, led by Aaron Glenn, is emphasizing strong communication and a cohesive unit. The Lions are aiming to crack the top 20 in both points and yards allowed on defense.
Defensive Line and Linebackers: Assessing the Front Seven
The podcast episode analyzes the Lions' defensive line and linebacker groups. While the team has made some additions to the interior defensive line, there may still be room for improvement and additional depth in that area. They are relying on players like Charles Harris and Romeo Okwara to provide pass rushing production on the edge. The linebacker position has seen some changes, with rookie Jack Campbell likely to start alongside Alex Anzalone. The Lions are looking for these units to contribute to a more solid and improved overall defense.
In Volume 3 of TAFS Goes Camping, Robert Mays visits with Colts beat writer James Boyd, Bengals beat writer Paul Dehner Jr. and Lions beat writer Colton Pouncy.
