Bengals Rookie CB Faces Chase & Higgins Test

The Cincinnati Bengals are evaluating rookie cornerback Tacario Davis by pitting him against elite wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins during training camp. This unique approach allows the 6-foot-4 Davis an early chance to prove his capabilities against top-tier competition. Defensive coordinator Al Golden has highlighted Davis's impressive lateral quickness, reach, and recovery speed, indicating his physical attributes could translate well beyond just his length.

Drafted in the third round, Davis brings a rare physical profile to the secondary, measuring nearly 6-foot-4 with long arms. His college performance, including leading the Pac-12 in passes defended in 2023, shows promise. The Bengals are now focused on assessing his ability to change direction and recover downfield, crucial skills for a cornerback.

The daily matchups against Chase, who threatens at every level, and Higgins, with his size and strength, present an unforgiving test. Davis must demonstrate he can handle speed, precise routes, and physicality without solely relying on his height advantage. These rigorous practice sessions will determine how quickly his traits can benefit the defense, especially in red zone scenarios against larger receivers and tight ends.