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A.J. Green has been a huge John Ross guy since the Bengals drafted the former Washington receiver in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
Green has maintained his support of his teammate, despite a disappointing rookie season in which Ross only recorded a single rushing attempt, a fumble and no receptions.
“Every year is not going to be perfect,” Green said via Whio.com. “Even LeBron James has bad games.”
You could tell Green was kidding by the slight laugh he gave out afterwards. Obviously Ross has a very long way to go to even be compared to a guy like LeBron James. James is viewed as one of the best (if not the best) basketball player of all time. He is one of the most well rounded players in any sport. Meanwhile, Ross is just looking for his first catch as an NFL receiver.
Green’s point is a fair one. Players have bad seasons, and it is no reason to write a payer off, especially early in their careers. Obviously choosing a name like James is a bit over the top to use as an example, but the intention was there. Ross probably appreciates any defense he can get right now. It probably means even more coming from the Bengals best receiver. Green also hopes that being in the building for a year helps as well.
“Just having a year under his belt to understand this whole NFL process and the way we go about things here,” Green said. “He’s being more comfortable and just starting off fresh.”
It is true that seeing what it takes to be an NFL receiver probably helps as you prepare for your second season. It helps even more having a guy like Green set the example for you.
This isn’t Green’s first attempt to defend what will presumably be his new running mate at receiver. Earlier this offseason he talked about how healthy and explosive Ross looks.
Ross has also been doing his part to turn around his poor rookie season. Former Bengal receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Ross worked out together earlier this offseason as well.
It seems like Ross is doing absolutely everything possible in order to get his career back on track, and his biggest fan may be in the locker room with him.