Bengals News (4/21): Ahead of schedule

Burrow's Focus Has Collinsworth Recalling His Two Bengals QBs
Cris Collinsworth and Joe Burrow have been linked enough through the Bengals and Cincinnati and Collinsworth has been such an ardent supporter that when Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham scouted out Collinsworth before a game last season to talk about the rookie quarterback, Graham told him how impressed he was with "your boy."

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has been throwing and is on track for the 2021 season
Burrow told Collinsworth he's been throwing for more than a week from a drop as well as flinging play-action passes to a hearty band of stationary equipment managers. Even though he notes he's just half-way through a nine-month rehab with his Dec. 2 reconstructive knee surgery and setbacks could still loom, he's confident he'll play Opening Day.

Cincinnati Bengals' Joe Burrow still 'very optimistic' he'll play in 2021 opener after knee surgery
In an interview with "The Cris Collinsworth Podcast featuring Richard Sherman," Burrow said he is "ahead of schedule" following reconstructive knee surgery to repair injuries that ended his rookie season. He said he should be ready for the team's season opener.

Bengals QB Joe Burrow 'ahead of schedule,' plans to 'be there on the first snap of 2021'
"I'm very optimistic about where I'm at and also where the team is at," Burrow told Collinsworth on the Pro Football Focus podcast, via the team website. "Rehab is going very, very well and lifting is going very, very well. I'm in great shape. Legs feel good, knee feels good. There's still a long way to go, but I'm expecting to be there on the first snap of 2021.

Cincinnati Bengals NFL Draft Preview: Getting Joe Burrow The Help He Needs
Burrow's devastating injury, in which he tore both the ACL and MCL in his left knee, underscored the fact the Bengals need help on the offensive line. They addressed that somewhat in free agency by signing veteran Viking left tackle Riley Reiff to a two-year deal worth $5.5 million in fully guaranteed money, per overthecap.com.

Cincinnati Bengals star quarterback Joe Burrow Offers Up Huge Praise for Ja'Marr Chase Ahead of 2021 NFL Draft
"I haven't offered up any strong opinion," Burrow said on the Cris Collinsworth podcast. "I'm great friends with Ja'Marr. We've been talking for a year since we stopped playing together. We talked last week so I'm great friends with Ja'Marr [and] know the kind of player he is. I think we're in a great spot. I think a lot of the picks in front of us will be quarterbacks, not sure how many them, but I think a lot of them will be. I think we're in a good spot to take the best available."

Bengals upgrade Joe Burrow’s offense in new mock from Kiper and McShay
Next up on the mock draft circuit ahead of the 2021 NFL draft? The Cincinnati Bengals landing some interesting talent while ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. and Todd McShay take turns acting as general managers.

Cincinnati Bengals Legends Weigh in on Ring of Honor
“In the fifty plus years of this organization, there have been some amazing players that have gone through here,” Muñoz said. “There are a lot of guys worthy of being in the Ring of Honor.”

Around the league

Dr. Harry Edwards: Derek Chauvin ruling marks 'a transformative time in American society'
Sociologist and sports activist Dr. Harry Edwards joins NFL Network's Steve Wyche, Michael Silver and Jim Trotter to discuss the Derek Chauvin verdict.

NFL, NFLPA release results of annual helmet testing: Three previously approved models now prohibited
This year, 41 helmet models were tested, including three models which ranked in the top 10 overall. Included in the top three helmets overall is a new position-specific helmet -- the VICIS Zero2-R Trench -- designed for offensive and defensive linemen. That helmet features bumpers on the front and upper side of the helmet, where sensors have indicated the most impact takes place for linemen. Position-specific helmets are considered the next frontier in helmet technology, although it is too early to know how quickly players will embrace them.

Gregory Rousseau's agent: Multiple teams would pick Miami pass rusher in first round
In any other year, Rousseau would have used 2020 to prove his development after just 14 college games in two seasons at Miami and could have vaulted into the top of draft boards. However, the COVID-19 pandemic altered that plan. His opt-out last season leaves scouts projecting his trajectory.

GM Brandon Beane: Bills running backs aren't 'home run hitters'; Buffalo could draft explosive RB early
Despite the desire to improve that rushing attack in 2021, GM Brandon Beane told reporters Wednesday that he likes his current group of backs and isn't going to press to snag a running back early in the draft, including with the No. 30 overall pick.

Adrian Peterson remains steadfast in his desire to continue playing: 'I'm looking for a contender'
"I'm looking for a contender," Peterson said. "I'm looking for a team that's built to go and chase a championship. That's my ultimate goal and I feel like I can really help to contribute in accomplishing that. A team with a good quarterback, a good defense and some playmakers on the offensive side of the ball. For me to be able to get into that type of situation would be perfect."