Mitchell Tinsley, an undrafted wide receiver from Penn State, has been making significant strides with the Cincinnati Bengals, highlighted by a strong preseason performance in Washington. On Monday night, Tinsley caught five passes for 73 yards and scored two touchdowns, including an electrifying 21-yard jump-ball catch that energized the crowd at Paycor Stadium. Joe Burrow, the Bengals’ star quarterback, was quick to praise Tinsley’s contributions after seeing his impact firsthand early in the game.
Burrow acknowledged Tinsley’s value both on and off the field during an interview with ESPN’s Laura Rutledge, emphasizing the receiver’s intelligence and versatility.
“Hopefully he secured a roster spot,” Burrow told ESPN’s Laura Rutledge. “That guy’s been making plays all camp. He’s smart, knows every position, and you can trust him. That’s valuable.”
Joe Burrow’s Role Beyond the Quarterback Spot
In addition to backing Tinsley, NFL insider John Frascell offered sharp insight into Burrow’s wider influence within the Bengals organization, suggesting Burrow acts as a “quasi-GM” affecting roster decisions. This reveals the quarterback’s growing role off the field as a trusted voice in building the team.
“One of the worst-kept secrets in the league: Joe Burrow is the quasi-GM of the Bengals. Influences roster decisions.”
Meanwhile, fellow Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase expressed optimism about Tinsley’s future with the team, telling Rutledge that Tinsley is on track to earn a spot playing with the first-string offense if he continues performing at the same level. This is a notable development for a player who joined Cincinnati only earlier this year in February.
Burrow Addresses Trey Hendrickson Contract Dispute and Team Challenges
While Burrow is enthusiastic about emerging talent like Tinsley, he has also openly shared his concerns regarding the ongoing Trey Hendrickson contract situation. Despite the Bengals’ training camp running for nearly a month and two preseason games completed, Hendrickson, a four-time Pro Bowl defensive end, has yet to play this season as the contract talks remain unresolved.
“Obviously disappointing,” Burrow admitted about Hendrickson’s absence. “You’d like to have all your guys out there Day 1 to try to build that cohesion … but that’s not how it usually works out.”
Burrow also expressed understanding of the business realities behind the standoff.
“Nobody’s ever gonna fault the player for doing business how he feels he needs to. It’s cutthroat. You gotta fight for everything you can get. That’s how it goes.”
Hendrickson’s pursuit of a new contract reflects the market trends set by peers such as T.J. Watt, Myles Garrett, and Danielle Hunter, with Hendrickson currently ranked 12th among edge rushers based on his $21 million annual salary following an All-Pro season that led the league with 17.5 sacks.
Significance of Burrow’s Endorsement and Leadership Dynamics
Joe Burrow’s public support of Mitchell Tinsley shines a spotlight on a rising player who has exceeded expectations for an undrafted wideout. His influence as both a player and a decision-maker within the Bengals’ structure could shape how the roster develops in the coming season.
With key veterans like Hendrickson caught in contract negotiations, Burrow’s leadership and ability to elevate younger teammates will be crucial as Cincinnati navigates roster challenges and strives for success in the 2025 NFL season and beyond.