Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers has announced that he is completely healthy and fully prepared to make an impact this upcoming NFL season after recovering from a knee injury that sidelined him during the postseason last year. Flowers, who missed both playoff games, expressed confidence in his physical condition and readiness to contribute without limitations as the new season approaches.
Reflecting on the difficulty of missing the critical Divisional Round game against the Bills, Flowers shared the mental challenges he faced after participating in every regular-season game. Despite the setback, he remains determined and optimistic about facing the Bills again in the coming season.
“I feel 100%. I feel like I’m ready for the season. No limits.” —Zay Flowers, Ravens WR
“When you play 17 games just to get to the first playoff game and you can’t play in it, it’s always hard. Missing a playoff game is different. At least we get to play [the Bills] in our first game this year.” —Zay Flowers, Ravens WR
Jermaine Burton Focuses on Consistency After Challenging Rookie Campaign
The Cincinnati Bengals remain optimistic about rookie wide receiver Jermaine Burton despite a slow start in his debut season, where he recorded just four catches following his selection in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Burton’s development was impacted by off-field and practice-related issues, but his teammates have noted a positive shift in his approach.
Bengals veteran Tee Higgins praised Burton’s improved route running and his growing confidence in practice. Higgins highlighted Burton’s ability to stick to his routes and demonstrate greater understanding of the playbook, emphasizing that this progress aligns with what the team expects at this stage.
“He’s come in and out of his routes like he should be, and he’s not asking too many questions because he knows. That’s the way we want it.” —Tee Higgins, Bengals WR
Burton himself has committed to establishing better habits and routines to elevate his game. He believes that building stronger chemistry with his teammates during the offseason has bolstered his confidence and prepared him to unlock his full potential on the field.
“Come up with better habits, better routines,”
“Try and stay consistent. Consistency is key. I feel a lot more comfortable with my teammates. Created a lot of bonding and relationships with these guys over the course of the offseason. I feel like I’m closer with the guys. I know my ability. I know my potential and I know what I need to do to show it and I’m doing all these things right now. Hopefully you guys see it real soon.” —Jermaine Burton, Bengals WR
Myles Garrett Reflects on Nick Chubb’s Departure and Future
On the Cleveland Browns front, defensive end Myles Garrett addressed the team‘s decision to move on from running back Nick Chubb, emphasizing the emotional impact of losing a significant locker room presence and fan favorite. Garrett revealed that he advocated for bringing Chubb back during discussions with general manager Andrew Berry and expressed admiration for Chubb’s resilience and accomplishments despite past injuries.
Although Garrett understands the realities of the NFL and supports the young players currently on the Browns roster, he remains hopeful for Chubb’s continued success as he pursues his career elsewhere.
“I love Nick. I think a lot of the guys who are in this locker room still feel the same way as I do,” Garrett said. “It crushed us to see him get injured and have to battle through, and then it happened again. So, we want the very best for him. Happy to see him still able to play, still able to do his thing. Want to see him go back to being the player that he was and have a smile on his face, continue to ball out. That was part of my talks with AB a couple of months ago, asking about the situation with Nick and how that’s going to work out, and how we can get him back here. I know he means a lot to the fans, but he means a lot to us in the locker room. So, it’s an emotional blow to not have him here. But we’ve got to keep on moving, keep on trucking. We’ve got some very talented backs in that room, some young, hungry guys who have a hell of an example to watch and some shoes to fill. But he’s one of the best to ever do it in the Brown and Orange, and we appreciate everything he’s done.” —Myles Garrett, Browns DE
“I won’t put any kind of parameters, expectations, or limits on his future and what he can do,” Garrett added. “He’s broken through all the ceilings that we’ve set forth for him, with the recovery from the injuries he’s had, how substantial they’ve been. And yet, he’s come back, excelled, and been able to play at a high level. It’s tough enough being on an NFL roster. And to come back, being the guy again, toting the rock — he’s special. And I hope he can continue to be that.” —Myles Garrett, Browns DE
Outlook for the NFL Season: Recovery, Growth, and New Opportunities
This NFL season will be significant for several key players as they seek to overcome obstacles and prove their skill on the field. Zay Flowers entering the year fully healthy revitalizes the Ravens’ receiving corps, providing hope for impactful performances. Meanwhile, Jermaine Burton’s progress toward consistency offers optimism for the Bengals’ offense as they develop their young talent with guidance from veterans like Tee Higgins.
The Browns’ ongoing transition and the emotional dynamics surrounding Nick Chubb’s departure highlight the ever-changing nature of team rosters in the league. Myles Garrett’s respect for Chubb’s journey underscores the personal connections that remain even as players move to new teams.
With each team adjusting and players driven to excel after setbacks, the upcoming NFL season promises to showcase resilience and determination, setting the stage for standout moments across the league.