James Rapien
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Articles by James Rapien
Joe Burrow Leads Bengals to Much-Needed Win Over Dolphins: Instant Takeaways Original
The Bengals are 3-2 on the season following the much needed road win. Oct 11, 2026; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) hands the ball during the third quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect The Bengals beat the Dolphins 31-24 on Sunday in Miami. Cincinnati never trailed in the contest, maintaining a double digit lead for most of the second half.
Joe Burrow Leads Bengals to Much-Needed Win Over Dolphins: Instant Takeaways
The Bengals beat the Dolphins 31-24 on Sunday in Miami. Cincinnati never trailed in the contest, maintaining a double digit lead for most of the second half. The Bengals are 3-2 on the season following the victory.
Instant Takeaways: Joe Burrow's Rally Falls Short, Bengals Lose to Jaguars 22-17 Original
The Bengals fall to 2-2 on the season. Bengals Joe Burrow (9) looks for a pass during their game against the Jaguars at Paycor Stadium on Sunday October 4, 2026. The Jaguars were up 13-3 at halftime. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect The Bengals had a chance to establish themselves as one of the AFC's top teams, instead they fell back to the pack. Joe Burrow and the Bengals fell to the Jaguars 22-17 on Sunday at Paycor Stadium.
Former Bengals star hints at NFL comeback: 'I'm back'
Former Bengals and Texans running back Joe Mixon hasn't played in the NFL since 2024. That may change in the near future. Mixon posted a hype video on X on Saturday teasing a possible return. The video included commentary on his status, which included a foot injury that sidelined him for the entire 2025 season. At the end of the video, Mixon made his return clear "Let's Go! I'm back, baby!" he yelled. Mixon's Injury Mixon missed the entire 2025 season with a foot injury.
Former Bengals star hints at NFL comeback: 'I'm back'
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Former Bengals Star Hints at NFL Comeback: 'I'm Back' Original
Joe Mixon clearly wants to return to the NFL. He missed all of last season with a foot injury. Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon (28) and Tyler Boyd take the field at Paycor Stadium Sunday, November 12, 2023. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect Former Bengals and Texans running back Joe Mixon hasn't played in the NFL since 2024. That may change in the near future. Mixon posted a hype video on X on Saturday teasing a possible return.
Biggest Takeaways From the Bengals' 30-27 Loss to the Steelers Original
The Bengals are 2-1 on the season. Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) throws with pressure from Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) in the first quarter of the NFL Week 3 game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026. The game was tied at 17 at halftime. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect The Bengals lost to the Steelers 30-27 on Sunday in Pittsburgh.
Bengals Announce Inactives: One Youngster is Active for First Time This Season
The Bengals are hoping to get to 3-0 for the first time since 2015. Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill (92) walks on the field before the game against the Chicago Bears at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill is officially inactive for Sunday's game against the Steelers.
Bengals Announce Inactives: One Youngster is Active for First Time This Season
Former Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin essentially guaranteed a Pittsburgh victory this week. “It’s great to be home. I wish that I could be here Sunday for this butt kicking that we are going to put on the Cincinnati Bengals," Tomlin said at the Steelers Hall of Fame Dinner Program. Meanwhile, the Bengals are trying to get to 3-0 for the first time since 2015. "We're just trying to be 1-0 this week.
5 Biggest Takeaways From Bengals' Week 2 Win Over Texans Original
The Bengals are 2-0 for the second consecutive season. Sep 20, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) calls an audible during the third quarter against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect The Bengals beat the Texans 20-6 on Sunday to improve to 2-0 on the season. Cincinnati never trailed in the victory. The Bengals are 2-0 for the second consecutive season.
Injuries Adding Up: Texans Set to Be Without Multiple Starters vs. Bengals
The Bengals head to Houston to play the Texans on Sunday. Aug 20, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) catches a pass before playing agains the Las Vegas Raiders at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect The Texans will officially be shorthanded on Sunday against the Bengals. Houston ruled out Nico Collins after the star wide receiver suffered a hamstring injury during Wednesday's practice.
Injuries Adding Up: Texans Set to Be Without Multiple Starters vs. Bengals
The Texans will officially be shorthanded on Sunday against the Bengals. Houston ruled out Nico Collins after the star wide receiver suffered a hamstring injury during Wednesday's practice. Collins is clearly Houston's top weapon. Meanwhile, Jadeveon Clowney (knee) has also been ruled out and starting guard Ed Ingram (groin) is also out. Sep 13, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (90) after a play during the game against the Buffalo Bills at Reliant Stadium.
Texans star suffers injury ahead of matchup with Bengals
Joe Burrow isn't the only star player dealing with an injury ahead of Sunday's game with Houston. Texans wide receiver Nico Collins suffered a hamstring injury during Wednesday's practice. Collins was officially limited in the session. What We Know Collins suffered the injury during Wednesday's session. He had seven catches for 75 yards and one touchdown in Houston's Week 1 loss to Buffalo.
Texans Star Suffers Injury Ahead of Matchup With Bengals Original
Nico Collins injured his hamstring in practice on Wednesday. Aug 20, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) catches a ball and warm-ups before the Houston Texans played the Las Vegas Raiders at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect Joe Burrow isn't the only star player dealing with an injury ahead of Sunday's game with Houston.
Texans Star Suffers Injury Ahead of Matchup With Bengals
Joe Burrow isn't the only star player dealing with an injury ahead of Sunday's game with Houston. Texans wide receiver Nico Collins suffered a hamstring injury during Wednesday's practice. Collins was officially limited in the session. Aug 20, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) catches a pass before playing agains the Las Vegas Raiders at Reliant Stadium.
5 Biggest Takeaways From Bengals' Week 1 Win Over Buccaneers Original
The Bengals are 1-0 for a second consecutive season. Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) checks in with head coach Zac Taylor between plays in the second quarter of the NFL Week 1 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026.
5 Biggest Takeaways From Bengals' Week 1 Win Over Buccaneers
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) checks in with head coach Zac Taylor between plays in the second quarter of the NFL Week 1 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
5 Biggest Takeaways From Bengals' Week 1 Win Over Buccaneers
The Bengals' defense came up big, forcing three turnovers and Joe Burrow overcame a second half interception to lead Cincinnati to a 33-27 victory over Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers on Sunday at Paycor Stadium. The Bengals controlled most of the game, but Mayfield and the Bucs rallied to pull within 33-27 late in the fourth quarter. Burrow leaned on his playmakers to seal the game. First he found Dohnte Meyers for a short gain. Meyers made a man miss and gained 18 yards.
Instant Analysis: Bengals Make Surprising Decisions With Gameday Inactives Original
The Bengals play the Buccaneers on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. Aug 28, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Dohnte Meyers (81) catches a pass against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect Bengals training camp standout Dohnte Meyers is active for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers. Meyers had an impressive training camp and an even better preseason.
Joe Burrow Praises Bengals Ownership, Doubles Down on Future Original
The Bengals star quarterback doubled down on his future on Wednesday. Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) runs a play during practice at the Paycor Stadium practice facility in downtown Cincinnati on Monday, Aug. 3, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow made it clear he has no plans of leaving the team or the city any time soon on Tuesday.
Joe Burrow Praises Bengals Ownership, Doubles Down on Future
Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow made it clear he has no plans of leaving the team or the city any time soon on Tuesday. He doubled down following Wednesday's practice after taking the podium with more than a dozen media members in attendance. "It was never a question in my mind," Burrow said when asked about his future. "I didn't necessarily think about stamping that in that moment. That's just that's how I feel.
Joe Burrow sends strong message about his future ahead of Bengals opener
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Joe Burrow Sends Strong Message About His Future Ahead of Bengals Opener
Joe Burrow is doing his best to end a narrative that has followed him for years. Aug 13, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) runs onto the field before the game against the Detroit Lions at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect Joe Burrow is here to stay. The Bengals star didn't pull any punches during an exclusive conversation with Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com.
Joe Burrow Sends Strong Message About His Future Ahead of Bengals Opener
Joe Burrow is here to stay. The Bengals star didn't pull any punches during an exclusive conversation with Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com. Of course, Hobson has taken his fair share of licks from Bengals stars over the years, but Tuesday he delivered a message from Joey Franchise that will echo throughout the fan base for days, weeks, maybe even years. "I'm here for the long haul," Burrow said. "I'm not going anywhere." There's been speculation about Burrow's future in Cincinnati for years.
Joe Burrow Sends Strong Message About His Future Ahead of Bengals Opener
Aug 13, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) runs onto the field before the game against the Detroit Lions at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Joe Burrow Sends Strong Message About His Future Ahead of Bengals Opener
Joe Burrow is here to stay. The Bengals star didn't pull any punches during an exclusive conversation with Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com. Of course, Hobson has taken his fair share of licks from Bengals stars over the years, but Tuesday he delivered a message from Joey Franchise that will echo throughout the fan base for days, weeks, maybe even years. "I'm here for the long haul," Burrow said. "I'm not going anywhere." There's been speculation about Burrow's future in Cincinnati for years.
Joe Burrow Sends Clear Message: He Is Not the Next Andrew Luck
Message delivered loud and clear. Aug 13, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) runs onto the field before the game against the Detroit Lions at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect No, Joe Burrow is not Andrew Luck. It's an odd narrative that has been mentioned for far too long.
Joe Burrow Sends Clear Message: He Is Not the Next Andrew Luck
No, Joe Burrow is not Andrew Luck. It's an odd narrative that has been mentioned for far too long. In fact, I remember standing at a Bengals training camp practice as Burrow made his return from the torn ACL he suffered as a rookie and one prominent national writer mentioned the possiblity. I dismissed the idea and responded with "Burrow loves football too much." "Luck loved football, too," he responded. While that may be true, the narrative has never held up.
Duke Tobin sends strong message about Barrett Carter and Demetrus Knight Jr.
The Bengals didn't add a starting linebacker this offseason, opting to stick with Barrett Carter and Demetrius Knight Jr. Did they make the right decision? Are they looking to add a linebacker before the start of the regular season? Bengals Director of Player Personnel Duke Tobin joined the preseason television broadcast on Saturday night and shared a ringing endorsement for both Carter and Knight. He also made it clear that both players still have plenty to prove.
Duke Tobin Sends STRONG Message About Barrett Carter and Demetrus Knight Jr. Original
A ringing endorsement for the Bengals' young linebackers. Nov 27, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Barrett Carter (49) reacts after the game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect The Bengals didn't add a starting linebacker this offseason, opting to stick with Barrett Carter and Demetrius Knight Jr. Did they make the right decision?
5 takeaways from Bengals' preseason win over Lions
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5 Takeaways From Bengals' Preseason Win Over Lions Original
Joe Burrow and the Bengals made their 2026 debut on Thursday night. Aug 13, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) stands on the field during a stop in play in the first half against the Detroit Lions at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect Joe Burrow and the Bengals made their 2026 debut on Thursday night.
5 Takeaways From Bengals' Preseason Win Over Lions
Joe Burrow and the Bengals made their 2026 debut on Thursday night. Here are five takeaways from the 16-14 victory over the Lions: Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) takes a snap from center Ted Karras (64) during practice at the Paycor Stadium practice facility in downtown Cincinnati on Monday, Aug. 3, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect Burrow completed 5-of-6 passes for 39 yards on Thursday night.
Joe Burrow's Extra Work, Dax Hill Sidelined and Other Bengals Minicamp Takeaways
Bengals cornerback Dax Hill didn't participate in 7-on-7 drills on Tuesday during the first day of minicamp. Naturally, there will be speculation about his contract status. Hill is entering the final year of his contract and is eligible for an extension. The fifth-year cornerback participated in individual drills but stood on the sideline during the team portion of practice. Was that due to his contract? Contract Related?
Joe Burrow's Extra Work, Dax Hill Sidelined and Other Bengals Minicamp Takeaways
Here's the latest from a busy day at Paycor Stadium. Jun 16, 2026; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) snaps the ball during minicamp at Kettering Health Practice Fields. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | Katie Stratman-Imagn Images Bengals cornerback Dax Hill didn't participate in 7-on-7 drills on Tuesday during the first day of minicamp. Naturally, there will be speculation about his contract status.
Joe Burrow's Latest Comments Should End the Andrew Luck Narrative
Joe Burrow just wants to play football. And this season he has a real chance to win. Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) throws a pass during spring practice on at the Kettering Practice Fields on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. | Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Bengals OTAs are in full swing. Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and a remade Bengals' defense worked out together as a team this week, which included 7-on-7 and other on-field work.
Joe Burrow Already Bonding With Dexter Lawrence After Bengals Blockbuster Trade
It's no secret that Joe Burrow was pleased with the Bengals' moves this offseason. He's praised the additions of Bryan Cook and Jonathan Allen. He's also made it clear how he feels about newly acquired defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. "We filled some holes that we had from years past, got better at a lot of positions. Signed the best free agent safety. Got the best D tackle in the league, in my opinion," Burrow said last week. "We have a lot of depth now on the defensive line. That's exciting.
Joe Burrow Already Bonding With Dexter Lawrence After Bengals Blockbuster Trade
Cincinnati Bengals star quarterback Joe Burrow is already bonding with defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence following last month's blockbuster trade with the New York Giants. Jul 25, 2025; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) throws during training camp practice. Mandatory Credit: Kareem Elgazzar-Imagn Images | Kareem Elgazzar-Imagn Images It's no secret that Joe Burrow was pleased with the Bengals' moves this offseason.
Could Joe Burrow Reunite With Former Teammate After Recent Workout?
Edwards-Helaire is a free agent. He was selected by the Chiefs with the 32nd overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. He spent four seasons in Kansas City, before signing with the Saints in free agency. After one season in New Orleans, he returned to the Chiefs. Edwards-Helaire has only appeared in four NFL games over the past two seasons. Would the Bengals be open to bringing him in to compete for a roster spot? It would be a low-risk addition. He clearly has a good rapport with Burrow.
Could Joe Burrow reunite with former teammate after recent workout?
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Could Joe Burrow Reunite With Former Teammate After Recent Workout?
Joe Burrow worked out with Clyde Edwards-Helaire on Saturday. Both LSU Legends were first round picks in the 2020 NFL Draft. Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) celebrates after the game-winning touchdown pass to Tee Higgins in overtime of the NFL Week 17 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Denver Broncos at Paycor Stadium in downtown Cincinnati on Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024. The Bengals took a 30-24 win in overtime to remain in the post season chase.
Could Joe Burrow Reunite With Former Teammate After Recent Workout?
Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow remains good friends with former LSU teammate Clyde Edwards-Heliare. The duo worked out together over the weekend at Elite Training Academy in Louisiana. Both Burrow and Edwards-Helaire are part owners in the training academy. "From LSU legends to ELITE owners 🤝Joe Burrow and Clyde Edwards-Helaire getting work in with a throwing session like old times at the facility they helped build," they wrote on their Instagram. "Staying ELITE throughout the offseason.
Joe Burrow Reacts to Bengals’ Bold Offseason Moves, Sends Clear Message
The Bengals made plenty of moves to bolster their team this offseason. From signing top free agents like Bryan Cook and Boye Mafe to sending the 10th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to the Giants in exchange for Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, Cincinnati added to its team in a big way. The Bengals made back-to-back AFC championship games in 2021 and 2022. They haven't made the playoffs since. What does Joe Burrow think about all of the Bengals' moves this offseason? Burrow's Reaction
Joe Burrow Reacts to Bengals’ Bold Offseason Moves, Sends Clear Message
Burrow opened up about the Bengals' offseason moves earlier this week. Jan 4, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) walks to the locker room following a loss against the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images | Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images The Bengals made plenty of moves to bolster their team this offseason.
Reds Map Out Nick Lodolo’s Return as Chase Petty Gets His Shot
The Cincinnati Reds are closer to getting one of their best pitchers back in the rotation. After allowing just two runs on five hits in 4 1/3 innings on Satursday night, Nick Lodolo is set to return to the big leagues. Lodolo finished with six strikeouts and two walks. He's on the injured list due to a blister on his left hand. Manager Terry Francona told Gordon Wittenmyer of the Enquirer and other reporters that Lodolo will pitch on Friday against the Astros.
Reds Map Out Nick Lodolo’s Return as Chase Petty Gets His Shot
A key piece of the Reds rotation is set to return. Mar 12, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cincinnati Reds pitcher Nick Lodolo against the Los Angeles Dodgers during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Cincinnati Reds are closer to getting one of their best pitchers back in the rotation.
Why Bengals Declined Myles Murphy’s Fifth-Year Option and What’s Next
The Bengals made the decision on Thursday. Dec 21, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Myles Murphy (99) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images The Bengals declined Myles Murphy's fifth-year option on Thursday morning. The option would've cost $14.465 million for the 2027 season. It would've been fully guaranteed.
Hits, Reaches and Steals: Grading Every Pick in the Bengals’ 2026 Draft Class
The 2026 NFL Draft is in the books. Cincinnati added four defensive players and four offensive players with their eight picks. That includes their blockbuster trade for Dexter Lawrence. Let's breakdown every pick and grade the Bengals' 2026 draft class: Pick 10: Traded for DT Dexter Lawrence Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images The Bengals desperately needed a game-changing defensive player. They signed Boye Mafe, Jonathan Allen and Bryan Cook, but it wasn't enough.
Hits, Reaches & Steals: Grading Every Pick in the Bengals’ 2026 Draft Class
It's report card time for the Cincinnati Bengals following the 2026 NFL Draft. Cincinnati Bengals third round pick Tacario Davis holds his jersey at a press conference during the 2026 NFL Draft, Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Paycor Stadium in downtown Cincinnati. | Frank Bowen IV/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images The 2026 NFL Draft is in the books. Cincinnati added four defensive players and four offensive players with their eight picks.
Inside Look at Bengals’ Decision to Draft Colbie Young in Round 4 Original
The Bengals took Young with the 140th overall pick. Georgia wide receiver Colbie Young (8) drives in to score a touchdown after pulling in a pass from Georgia quarterback Carson Beck (15) during the first half of a NCAA college football game against Tennessee Tech in Athens, on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024. | Joshua L. Jones / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images The Bengals selected Georgia wide receiver Colbie Young in the fourth round (140th overall) in the 2026 NFL Draft.
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