Solomon Wilcots welcomes NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero to discuss his observations from Bengals training camp. They dive into the team’s overall outlook, highlighting the improved depth at wide receiver and a renewed focus on getting off to a fast start this season. Tom points out how both offense and defense are showing promise, with the defense featuring impressive young talent and strong performances during camp. The conversation moves into contract negotiations, particularly the Trey Hendrickson situation, and how the Bengals’ philosophy around contracts might impact keeping key players. They also touch on the Bengals’ persistent slow starts in recent years and how the team has adjusted its camp practice schedule to try and change that pattern.00:00:52 — Training camp impressions / Bengals offense and receivers

Tom shares his takeaways from Bengals training camp, highlighting the depth of the receiver group and practice energy.

00:03:29 — Bengals defense update and young talent

Discussion of the defense’s performance in camp, standouts like DJ Turner, and a look at the secondary.

00:05:10 — Bengals contract philosophy & Trey Hendrickson standoff

Detailed breakdown of organizational approaches to contracts and the ongoing Trey Hendrickson negotiations.

00:08:54 — Trade value and compensation for Hendrickson

Talks about the Bengals' stance on trade offers and the team’s priorities regarding pass rushers.

00:10:50 — Importance of fast starts and team challenges

Review of Bengals’ history of slow season starts, factors involved, and organizational changes to address it.

00:12:29 — Adjustments in practice schedule to encourage fast starts

Explains how moving to earlier practices in camp is part of the focus on starting faster.

00:13:24 — Preseason game analysis: offense vs. defense

Discussion of preseason performance, especially the defense’s struggle against the Eagles.

00:15:30 — Al Golden’s new defense: schematic changes and expectations

Insights into the new defensive coordinator’s approach and what to expect during the season.

00:16:22 — Draft pick spotlight: Shemar Stewart & rookie class

Shemar Stewart compared to Danielle Hunter and Jadeveon Clowney, plus rookies like Demetrius Knight and Barrett Carter.

00:19:51 — Offense improvement focus: running game dilemma

Talk about the run game, changes in running back personnel, and hopes for the O-line.

00:20:54 — Vision for the backfield

Depth chart and roles: Chase Brown, Taj Brooks, and Samaje Perine.

00:23:40 — Joe Burrow’s health and performance expectations

Joe Burrow’s return to full health and what that means for the Bengals offense.

00:25:37 — AFC North storyline preview

Competitive landscape of the AFC North, spotlighting quarterbacks and division challenges.

00:29:03 — season outlook

Concluding thoughts on the Bengals’ roster, goals, and expectations for the 2025 season.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.