Joe Burrow’s surgery sidelines the starter, but Cincinnati’s field-position play remains a weapon. The Bengals sit fifth in starting field position at 34.3 yards, aided by a defense that creates takeaways and a revamped kickoff unit that’s producing even with inexperience. Samaje Perine and Charlie Jones have been the core returners, with Perine six for 154 yards and Jones three for 70, including a game where Jacksonville forced Jones out and Perine handled six returns. Excluding a muffed return, the unit posts a 30.8-yard clip, a potential game-changer for Browning’s early drives. A mix of rookies—Barrett Carter, Mitch Tinsley, P.J. Jules, Oren Burks—and Noah Fant are learning the role under Darrin Simmons, turning field position into real scoring chances.