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Jermaine Burton Shows Promise as Bengals Look to Bounce Back in 2025

Cincinnati Bengals
Source: Don Juan Fasho / Don Juan Fasho

After a turbulent 2024 season marked by defensive breakdowns, special teams mishaps, and untimely offensive stumbles, the Cincinnati Bengals are heading into 2025 with a renewed focus—and a few reasons for optimism. One of those bright spots? The development of wide receiver Jermaine Burton.

The rookie wideout experienced a mixed debut year, facing both growing pains on the field and challenges off it. However, heading into his second NFL season, Burton appears to be turning a corner—thanks in part to the mentorship of the Bengals’ veteran core and the guidance of franchise quarterback Joe Burrow.

Burrow, never one to throw around praise lightly, has been vocal about Burton’s growth. “He’s showing maturity,” Burrow said in a recent interview. “You can see he’s putting in the work, and that’s what we need. He’s got the tools—we’re just helping him sharpen them.”

With star receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins anchoring the Bengals’ air attack, Burton has the opportunity to carve out a crucial WR3 role, bringing both speed and depth to one of the most dynamic receiving corps in the league. His progress in the offseason could be a key factor in Cincinnati’s ability to stretch the field and create matchup problems for opposing defenses.

As the Bengals aim to rebound from a disappointing campaign, all eyes will be on how younger players like Burton step up. His development, paired with the leadership of Burrow and the firepower around him, offers a glimmer of hope that the team is poised for a stronger, more cohesive 2025.

If Burton continues on his current path, Bengals fans may soon see the rookie struggles give way to a breakout year—and a deeper, more dangerous Cincinnati offense.