Cincinnati’s practice surfaced a sharp reminder of football’s balance between aggression and safety when rookie Shemar Stewart clipped Joe Burrow during 11-on-11, triggering a scuffle as Bengals linemen stood up for their quarterback. The moment underscored how fragile the pocket can be in camp and how much the team emphasizes protecting Burrow, who navigated a league-leading 4,918 passing yards and 43 TDs in 2024 despite absorbing a heavy hit load.
The front line responded with accountability as centers and guards pledged better protection, stressing that Burrow’s health remains paramount to replicating last season’s production. Stewart’s high-energy rush is seen as a tangible upside for Cincinnati’s defense if tempered with discipline, while Burrow’s supporting cast and coaching staff aim to keep No. 9 upright this fall.
Stewart’s late start from a rookie holdout adds a learning curve to camp, but the Bengals trust his talent will translate into pressure without compromising Burrow’s health. For fantasy audiences, the dynamic remains Burrow at the core; the line’s improvement and Stewart’s growth will likely determine how frequently Burrow can push the ball downfield in 2025.
