Despite many suggesting that Jeromy Miles will eventually replace Taylor Mays as the starting safety opposite of Reggie Nelson, Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis isn't relenting on his favoritism with Mays. When asked about the potential starting strong safety after Friday's walkthrough, Lewis highlighted Mays' physical play, as well as his tackling.

"No. 1, Taylor’s physical presence back there. He’s really become a confident player as far as what we’re doing and helping other guys," Lewis said "I think he wants to be good. Now he missed a tackle (Jennings on the sideline)…but he’s been an excellent tackler and I hope that continues to be the way that it is."

Lewis described Miles' role more as a specialist on defense, as well as his typical special teams roles.

"And I think Jeromy has the versatility. He’s a great blitzer, he has a chance to come up and play nickel and do some things for us in special situations. When you’re playing against tight ends that flex out and do those types of things, you have some flexibility with a Jeromy Miles."

Miles, one of three Bengals with an interception, is currently tied for third on the team during the preseason with 15 tackles with Mays three tackles behind in fourth.