The Cincinnati Bengals haven’t had much in the way of notable headlines for a few weeks now.
Part of that is thanks to wide receiver Tee Higgins, who undercut any possible chatter about contract drama by signing his franchise tag right after minicamp. Meaning, he’s going to report to training camp on schedule — and provided a spark of hope that a long-term extension could still get done before the July 15 deadline.
Things aren’t as simple for the rest of the AFC North, though. One of Cincinnati’s primary rivals has a serious quarterback battle unfolding, while another has a star quarterback on the way back from a serious injury.
Here’s the most topical AFC North news for fans to know as July gets started.
Steelers: QB battle just starting
Joe Sargent/Getty Images
From the sounds of it, the quarterback battle between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields might not be as cut and dry as some would expect.
Ravens: Lamar Jackson talks Ravens' offense
Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Lamar Jackson, for one, sounds hyped about Year 2 of Todd Monken’s offense as the Ravens seek to keep contending.
Browns: Jack Conklin returns
David Dermer-USA TODAY Sports
There was some question as to whether the Browns would get a key member of the offensive line back — something Jack Conklin put to rest with an announcement.
Steelers: Cam Heyward contract drama
Syndication: The Enquirer
The standoff between the Steelers and star defender Cam Heyward isn’t improving, mostly due to one issue — the length of the contract.
Browns: Deshaun Watson ahead of schedule
Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
If there’s any concern about Deshaun Watson’s recovery, recent quotes from around the team have shuttered it by stressing that the star passer is actually ahead of schedule.
