Bengals and Bears hold joint preseason practice, defense dominates

The Cincinnati Bengals and Chicago Bears shared a practice field Thursday as part of a joint preseason session that many teams use to give starters additional reps. Reporters on the field said the Bengals began the day with under-center drills, and quarterback Joe Burrow completed three straight passes, marking his most extensive work against another team this preseason.

Defensive linemen for Cincinnati were noted for applying steady pressure throughout the practice. Defensive tackle T.J. Slaton performed strongly, and second-year linebacker Barrett Carter made a notable play during 7-on-7 drills. Defensive end Dexter Lawrence II intercepted a pass after rookie Cashius Howell knocked the ball loose and later pursued a quarterback scramble.

The practice also featured a brief altercation after a Bears defender grabbed Burrow’s jersey, prompting the quarterback to push back. No injuries were reported.

Both teams used the session to evaluate depth players. The Bengals highlighted the potential of rookie Myles Murphy, who recorded back-to-back sacks, and rookie safety Jalen Davis, who secured an interception late in the drill. On the Bears side, defensive end Dexter Lawrence continued to attract attention for his playmaking ability.

Special-teams competition was evident, with returner candidates Ke’Shawn Williams and Dohnte Meyers each making impactful plays. Overall, the joint practice provided valuable evaluation time for both squads ahead of their upcoming preseason matchup.