Buckner, known for his formidable presence on the defensive line, lauded Burrow and the Bengals for their remarkable turnaround and rising status as one of the NFL’s elite teams.
Buckner highlighted Burrow’s leadership and poise, noting how the young quarterback has quickly become one of the most respected players in the league. Despite Burrow being sidelined due to injury earlier in the preseason, Buckner emphasized that his influence on the team is undeniable. “Joe Burrow is one of those guys who can change the culture of a franchise,” Buckner remarked, adding that Burrow’s confidence and calm demeanor under pressure have been key to the Bengals’ success.
Burrow, the first overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, has transformed the Bengals since his arrival. Leading them to an appearance in Super Bowl LVI and back-to-back playoff runs, Burrow’s impact on the field has been significant. Buckner acknowledged this, stating that Burrow’s ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and deliver precise throws makes him one of the toughest quarterbacks to defend against in the league.
The Bengals’ roster, stacked with talent, also drew compliments from Buckner. He pointed to the chemistry between Burrow and his star receivers, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, as a major threat to opposing defenses. Buckner noted that the Bengals’ offense is dynamic and versatile, capable of striking quickly or methodically moving down the field.
As for the upcoming preseason game, Buckner expressed excitement about the opportunity to compete against a team of the Bengals’ caliber, even in a non-regular-season setting. He acknowledged that preseason games are less about the final score and more about evaluating talent and fine-tuning strategies, but facing a top-tier opponent like the Bengals provides valuable experience for the Colts.
Buckner’s praise reflects the respect that Burrow and the Bengals have earned across the league. As the Bengals continue to build on their recent successes, they are increasingly viewed as a legitimate Super Bowl contender, and comments like Buckner’s only reinforce the growing recognition of their rise. The preseason matchup, while not crucial in the standings, serves as a prelude to what could be another exciting season for Cincinnati.