NFL analyst encourages Cincinnati Bengals to trade “one of those receivers” to help Joe Burrow’s team in 2025
Joe Burrow is no stranger to tough Septembers, but this year's struggle is an all-timer. At 0-3, the team is tied with just a few others for the worst record in the NFL. Despite reaching the Super Bowl in the 2021 season, the team might be getting ready to ask some tough questions.
Speaking on "Get Up," NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky pressed the Bengals to trade a receiver to help prepare for the future, including a reference to Ja'Marr Chase's contract standoff.
"You're not signing both of them long-term, so at 0-4, you're not making the playoffs. You might as well try to trade one of those receivers sooner rather than later, to make sure you can get the maximum amount of value from them," he said [8:30].
Based on his comments, Orlovsky appeared to indicate either Tee Higgins or Ja'Marr Chase as potential trade options. Higgins is playing on a franchise tag and Chase clearly is unhappy with his current contract after holding out deep into the preseason.
Higgins has recorded just three catches this season, though he has played only one game. Meanwhile, Chase has recorded 16 catches for 215 yards and two touchdowns. Out of the two, Chase appears to be the more valuable of the two for both the Bengals and as a trade piece.
Joe Burrow's offense sees big jump despite 0-3 start
While it hasn't shown up in the win column, Joe Burrow's offense has been markedly better this year. Last season, the Bengals ranked 15th in passing yards per game. This year, they are sixth in passing yards per game.
Burrow has taken some heat over the slow start, but only five quarterback offenses rank above him this season in terms of production. Of course, some of last year's dip can be attributed to backup quarterbacks taking over for Burrow last season.
That said, the jump proves that little is wrong with Burrow, as he has outperformed his backup's performance last season thus far.
Rather, the team's defense has steadily declined as the season has gone on. On September 6th, the team surrendered just 16 points. Then, against the Kansas City Chiefs, they surrendered 26 points. In Week 3, they gave up 38 points.
Meanwhile, Burrow's offense has gotten stronger every week, earning 10, 25, and 33 points, respectively.
Will Joe Burrow's Bengals fix their defensive issues quickly or will the pressure to sell only grow?
If any of the above quotes are used, credit "Get Up" and H/T Sportskeeda.