Bengals Coordinator Makes BOLD Comment On Unproven Rookie + Zac Taylor’s Seat Is HOT—But He’s Ready

The Cincinnati Bengals have officially entered game week, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers coming to Paycor Stadium for the 2026 season opener. In this episode, we break down the latest Bengals news, including Al Golden's comments on rookie defensive lineman Cashius Howell, the team's linebacker situation, Zac Taylor's pressure heading into 2026, and the newly announced seven team captains.

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Al Golden's comments about Cashius Howell immediately caught our attention. The Bengals defensive coordinator already considers Howell a hit before he has played a single regular-season snap. After showing flashes of his rare combination of speed, power and physicality throughout training camp and the preseason, can Howell provide an immediate impact for Cincinnati's defense?

We also discuss Barrett Carter officially taking over the green dot and what that means for the Bengals' linebacker group alongside Demetrius Knight. With the regular season almost here, Cincinnati will finally get its first real answer on whether this young linebacker group can hold up.

Plus, we dive into Zac Taylor's 2026 pressure. His seat is among the hottest in the NFL, but Taylor understands the expectations surrounding a Bengals team with Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, a favorable schedule and significant offseason additions. Can he lead Cincinnati back to the playoffs?

Finally, we take another look at the seven Bengals captains for 2026, including Dexter Lawrence, Bryan Cook, DJ Turner II, Ted Karras, Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and Evan McPherson—and discuss what the new leadership group says about this year's team.

Bengals vs. Buccaneers is finally here. Game week has arrived.