NFL teams are back in training ahead of the first preseason game on August 14th. The Cincinnati Bengals returned to their training ground on Wednesday, but for Bengals fans, it wasn’t the return they hoped to see. Videos circulated online of fights involving Ja’Marr Chase, DJ Turner, and Jalen Davis, during which Chase threw a helmet at an intended teammate.
Why Are Teammates Fighting in Training?
According to WLWT, All-Pro wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase “jawed with the entire defense” during practice. And the pressure built to a fairly ugly sight for those attending Paycor Stadium this season. With fans split between the clear bad look at the situation and the fierce nature to succeed in the National Football League.
The Bengals had a difficult season with Joe Burrow sidelined with turf toe, and the veteran Joe Flacco only helped the team to a 6-11 record. With rumors circulating last season that there were tensions between the deadly offense and the underperforming defense, the narrative has only been exaggerated.
What Has Been Said Since the Incident?
Ja’Marr Chase explained to the media that both sides of the ball were trying to set the tone from day 1, while admitting, “That’s what I want from our DBs”. Chase went on to look at it from a positive perspective, saying he has never seen that side from Bengals nickel CB Jalen Davis.
30-year-old Jalen David shut down negative talk by explaining both players were “just competing… that’s all it is”. In his words, he would be happy with a fight “every day”. “I always feel like the energy’s gotta be like that. It’s gotta be like that on both sides of the field,” Davis said.
DJ Turner went on to say he wants to make sure “the defense is clicking as one” during this pre-season camp. Turner, who registered two interceptions and 40 tackles, was aware that “me being out there is important” for the defense for the 2026 NFL season. The former Michigan corner found “it fun” being targeted by Joe Burrow in practice and went on to explain that practice should be harder than games.
When Joe Burrow was asked about the altercation, he calmly replied: “Those two are two of the best in the league, and they’re going to be going at it. If you can punch somebody in the face, and then in about 15-20 seconds get back lined up, that’s probably ideal”.
Bengals Look Forward to 2026 Season
The Bengals open their season at home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, 13th September, before back-to-back away games to Houston and Pittsburgh. They will end the season on a home stretch against Lamar Jackson’s Ravens and finish by hosting the Cleveland Browns. A much better season is needed and expected out of Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase after two consecutive years out of the playoffs.
