John Ross returning to Bengals training camp

UPDATE

FOX19’s Jeremy Rauch confirms the report of Ross’ return to Cincinnati. He’s expected to officially return on Saturday.

John Ross’ absence from the Cincinnati Bengals is coming to an end.

After leaving Cincinnati last week to care for his three-year old son and the child’s mother, who had both tested positive for COVID-19, Ross is heading back to Bengals training camp as early as today.

NFL insider Mike Garafolo was informed of Ross’ plans from a post on reddit via u/akilles_XXVII, who had apparently talked to Ross in California earlier in the week.

Garafolo then confirmed the unofficial report and mentioned that Ross would have to pass the necessary COVID-19 tests in order to rejoin his teammates and be taken off of the Reserve/COVID list. These precautions are especially necessary since Ross was presumably exposed to the virus by being with his family.

But if all goes well, Ross could be back in action by the end of the week on Saturday. He will not be able to take part in the team’s scrimmage on Friday, but with him being away for the past week, him playing was unlikely.

In Ross’ absence, Mike Thomas has filled in quite nicely during the first two padded practices and seems to be forming a solid rapport with quarterback Joe Burrow. The distribution of snaps between Ross and Thomas going forward is something to watch for.

Most importantly, Ross’ returning hopefully means his family is either recovery well from their positive diagnosis or has since tested negative. Whatever the case may be, our thoughts are with the Ross family.