Cleveland Akron, OH, August 13, 2026 —

Cincinnati Bengals Head Coach Zac Taylor has highlighted the significance of quarterback Joe Burrow participating in practice sessions under adverse weather conditions, specifically rain, during the preseason. Taylor acknowledged the inherent risks associated with exhibition games but stressed the importance of these reps for player development.

The head coach’s remarks suggest a strategic approach to preseason training, where even seemingly minor aspects like practicing in the rain are deemed valuable for preparing the team, particularly the starting quarterback, for a full season. While the specific details of how these rainy practices were incorporated or what aspects were focused on were not provided, Taylor’s statement indicates a belief in the necessity of exposing players to varied conditions.

Preseason games, by their nature, are often viewed as opportunities for players to regain game shape, for coaches to evaluate roster depth, and for experimentation with schemes. However, they also carry the risk of injury to key players, leading to a common debate about the extent to which starters should participate. In this context, Taylor’s comments suggest that the benefits of game-like practice, even in less-than-ideal weather, outweigh the potential downsides for Burrow’s preparation.

The specific timeline or number of such rainy practice sessions was not detailed in the provided information. Similarly, the exact nature of the risks Taylor alluded to, beyond the general context of exhibition games, was not specified. Nonetheless, the coach’s perspective underscores a commitment to thorough preparation, aiming to ensure the Bengals are ready for the challenges of the upcoming regular season, regardless of the weather.



Story summarized from the original created by Cleveland.com Express Desk on www.cleveland.com, see more information here.

About The Author