Why is Bengals WR Jermaine Burton Not Playing?

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Written By Victor Mullen

Burton’s Benching: A Coach’s Decision

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Jermaine Burton was inactive for the team’s Week 18 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers (January 3, 2025) due to a coach’s decision. This marked Burton’s third benching of the 2024 season for non-injury-related reasons. The Bengals organization did not publicly disclose the specific reasons, leaving his absence shrouded in mystery. He did not even travel with the team to Pittsburgh, further fueling speculation.

Deeper Dive into Burton’s Season of Benchings

Burton’s Week 18 benching wasn’t an isolated incident. He was also benched in Week 9 against the Las Vegas Raiders. While officially listed as a coach’s decision, reports suggest that Burton missed a Saturday walkthrough, a critical team preparation activity. Adding to the intrigue, Burton reportedly arrived at the stadium in pajama pants, a move that likely did not impress the coaching staff. Head Coach Zac Taylor emphasized the importance of players “handling business the right way,” hinting at disciplinary concerns. The Week 9 incident occurred despite the Bengals already being short-handed at the receiver position due to Tee Higgins’ quad injury, further emphasizing the seriousness of Burton’s transgression. This incident foreshadowed his continued struggles with discipline and availability.

The Week 18 benching against the Steelers coincided with reports of Burton’s eviction and a lawsuit for unpaid rent. While the Bengals remained silent on the specific reasons, the timing suggests these off-field problems likely influenced the decision.

The Impact of Burton’s Absence on the Bengals

Burton’s repeated absences created a ripple effect on the Bengals’ offensive strategy. With both Burton and Higgins sidelined in Week 9, Ja’Marr Chase became the primary target for quarterback Joe Burrow. Trenton Irwin and Stanley Morgan Jr. saw increased playing time, stepping into roles they may not have been fully prepared for. This likely forced the Bengals to simplify their passing game, potentially relying more on quick passes and the running game. Ironically, Burrow had recently praised Burton’s performance in practice, suggesting a larger role in the offense was within reach before the disciplinary issues arose.

See also  Bengals WR Jermaine Burton: Rookie Season, Off-Field Issues, and Future Outlook

Burton’s Uncertain Future

Burton’s inconsistent performance and disciplinary issues raise serious questions about his future with the Bengals. While he possesses talent, his inability to stay on the field has hindered his development. These repeated benchings, coupled with the off-field issues, could impact his contract negotiations and even lead to a trade or release. Some experts believe the Bengals might be willing to give Burton another chance, while others suggest they may look to move on. His future in Cincinnati remains uncertain, a situation many will be watching closely.

A Timeline of Jermaine Burton’s 2024 Season

WeekOpponentStatusReasonContext
8EaglesInactiveCoach’s Decision (Missed Walkthrough)
9RaidersInactiveCoach’s Decision (Missed Walkthrough)Arrived at stadium in pajama pants; Higgins out with quad injury
11RavensActiveLast game targeted in passing game
18SteelersInactiveCoach’s Decision (Unconfirmed reports)Did not travel with team; reports of eviction and lawsuit for unpaid rent

This detailed look at Jermaine Burton’s 2024 season provides a comprehensive understanding of why he wasn’t playing. While official statements remain limited, the available information paints a clear picture of disciplinary issues and off-field problems that likely contributed to his repeated benchings. His future with the Bengals remains uncertain, and only time will tell what the next chapter holds for the young receiver.

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