Cincinnati Bengals Rookie Safety Having an Incredible Training Camp

As Cincinnati Bengals training camp kicked off, all eyes were on franchise quarterback Joe Burrow and star receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins for a number of reasons. Considering they are the stars who put fans in seats, it only makes sense. However, a few young guns are impressing coaching and fans alike.

The first interception of Burrow in camp wasn't Cam Taylor-Britt or Geno Stone or any of the veterans, it was seventh-round rookie, Daijahn Anthony .

That wasn't his only turnover, either. Through Sunday's practice, Anthony has hauled in three interceptions (one off Burrow, two off Browning). The Bengals have had three practices.

On Sunday, he jumped an in-cutting route and hauled in his second interception from Jake Browning in just three practices. Thus far, Anthony has been quite impressive.

Anthony has been getting snaps with the first-teamers on third down as an extra defensive back/nickel back. Considering how talented the Bengals' safety room is, the fact a seventh-rounder is getting looks is worth remembering.

In college, Anthony was a star. His career started off at Shepherd before transferring to Liberty where he recorded 41 tackles, six pass breakups, and three interceptions. As a freshman, the QB rating when targeting him was 40.8. As a sophomore, he improved that number to 35.0.

Anthony transferred to Ole Miss for 2023 where he notched 61 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, eight pass breakups, three interceptions, and forced a fumble.

Coming out, Anthony was often praised for his ball skills and technique. He's strong enough to jam receivers at the line and is able to break up passes in the receiver's hands. While he will likely be used this season as a nickel back in obvious passing situations, he's more than willing to come downhill and defend the run.

In a room with guys like Jordan Battle , Geno Stone, and Vonn Bell established, he's making a very strong case to make the roster and make an impact.

With the big-name players' contracts about to start taking up a significant chunk of the salary cap, the Bengals have to hit on as many draft picks as possible. Getting a solid playmaker in the seventh is a great way to prolong the Burrow-led Super Bowl window.