Sep 30, 2025, Posted by: Arlo Beaumont
When Jermaine Burton, a wide receiver for Cincinnati Bengals was declared inactive for the Monday night showdown against the Denver Broncos on , the league’s third‑round 2024 draft pick logged his fourth straight healthy scratch. The decision, reported by ESPN’s Ben Baby, stemmed from another missed start‑time to practice earlier in the week – a pattern that’s eroding the confidence of head coach Zac Taylor and his staff.
From Alabama Stardom to Cincinnati’s Draft Board
Burton arrived in Cincinnati riding a wave of college accolades. In 2023 he owned the Southeastern Conference, racking up 1,336 receiving yards and ranking sixth nationally in yardage – numbers that helped the Bengals reach for him in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. The Bengals’ 2024 Draft Day Cincinnati, Ohio saw Taylor smile as the team added a proven play‑maker, hoping his college production would translate into a deep‑threat option beside stalwarts like Ja’Marr Chase.
Season So Far: A String of Inactive Weeks
Instead of debuting in Week 1, Burton has watched the season from the sidelines. Week after week he’s been listed as a healthy scratch, a status not uncommon for rookies adjusting to the NFL’s speed but rare for a player who never missed a snap in his final college season. The first missed game came after a late arrival to a practice session in August; the second followed an identical infraction in early September. Now, after the latest tardiness, the Bengals have officially placed him on the inactive list for the Broncos contest.
Depth Chart Shifts and the Ripple Effect
Burton’s absence pushes him down to the sixth slot on the Bengals’ receiver depth chart – behind Chase, Tee Higgins, Ja’Corey Spiller, and two veteran backs. The ripple reaches the team’s offensive schematics; without a reliable third‑round rookie, Taylor has been forced to rely more heavily on tight ends Cam Grandy and Tanner Hudson. Both will be active together for the first time this season, a move prompted by the concussion‑protocol sidelining veteran Pat Fant, who was drafted by Denver in 2019 and now faces his former team without a slot on the active roster.
Coaching Staff’s Message on Professionalism
“We expect every player to come in ready to work,” Taylor said in a press conference on September 27. “Being on time isn’t negotiable. It’s about respecting the team and the fans.” The remark, while short, underscored a larger cultural note: the Bengals are intent on establishing a disciplined environment as they chase a playoff berth. Burton’s repeated lateness is being framed not merely as a personal issue, but as a breach of team standards that could undermine locker‑room cohesion.
What Does the Future Hold for Burton?
At 22, Burton still has ample time to correct his course. The Bengals’ front office, led by General Manager Mike Brown, reportedly remains patient but firm, stating that a single stretch of punctual practice could bring him back into the rotation. If he manages to regain the trust of Taylor’s staff, he could see snaps on special teams or in three‑wide sets later in the season. Conversely, continued lapses may force Cincinnati to explore trade options or a deeper reliance on free‑agent acquisitions before the trade deadline.
Broader Implications for NFL Rookie Management
Burton’s situation is a microcosm of a larger debate: how much leeway should teams give high‑draft picks who stumble early? Historically, franchises like the Seattle Seahawks have given legends such as DK Metcalf years to adjust, while others cut prospects in the first season. The Bengals appear to be walking a middle path – offering mentorship and a chance to redeem, yet drawing a hard line on punctuality.
- Jermaine Burton: 2024 third‑round pick, 0 games played 2025.
- Key statistic: 1,336 receiving yards in 2023 at Alabama.
- Depth: Sixth receiver on Cincinnati’s chart.
- Coach Zac Taylor: Emphasized professionalism after latest tardy incident.
- Upcoming game: Bengals vs. Broncos, Monday Night Football, September 29, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has Jermaine Burton not played a snap this season?
Burton has been listed as a healthy scratch for four consecutive games, primarily because he arrived late to two practice sessions. Coaching staff say the repeated tardiness raises concerns about his commitment and professionalism, prompting the decision to keep him inactive.
How does Burton’s inactivity affect the Bengals’ receiving depth?
With Burton sitting out, Cincinnati’s receiver rotation drops to five active players, forcing more snap volume for the remaining veterans and tighter integration of tight ends Cam Grandy and Tanner Hudson. The lack of a fresh, speedy third‑round rookie limits play‑calling variety, especially in third‑down situations.
What disciplinary steps could the Bengals take if Burton’s behavior continues?
Coach Zac Taylor has hinted at a “zero‑tolerance” stance on punctuality. Continued infractions could lead to a longer bench stint, a fine, or even a trade request. The front office may also consider moving him to the practice squad to retain his rights while emphasizing accountability.
When is the next opportunity for Burton to earn playing time?
If Burton demonstrates consistent punctuality and work‑ethic at the next practice, Taylor indicated he could be activated for the Broncos game on September 29. Otherwise, the earliest realistic window may be a few weeks later, pending injuries to other receivers.
How does Burton’s college performance compare to his current NFL standing?
In 2023 Burton led the SEC with over 1,300 receiving yards, ranking sixth nationally – a performance that made him a coveted third‑round pick. In contrast, his NFL standing has slipped to a sixth‑string role without any game snaps, underscoring the gap between college dominance and the professional expectations of discipline and consistency.
Author
Arlo Beaumont
Hello, my name is Arlo Beaumont, and I am a passionate chef with expertise in cooking and creating innovative recipes. I enjoy exploring various cuisines and experimenting with new ingredients to create delicious dishes. I love sharing my culinary knowledge and experiences by writing about recipes and cooking tips. My goal is to inspire others to develop their skills in the kitchen and to discover the joy of cooking.