The Cincinnati Bengals are poised to dramatically alter their offensive strategy for the 2026 NFL season, with quarterback Joe Burrow expected to operate from under center more often than in previous years. This marks a significant change from the team's long-standing reliance on Burrow lining up primarily in the shotgun formation. The strategic shift, which has been a major emphasis during training camp this summer, aims to bolster the run game and open up opportunities for more explosive plays, according to team personnel.
Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher highlighted a growing trend across the National Football League, noting that the most explosive offenses frequently line up with their quarterback under center. This approach, Pitcher explained, provides a wider array of run options and creates more opportunities for deep throws off play-action passes. While the Bengals' offense has consistently performed well throughout Burrow’s career, it has not been described as explosive since the 2021 season. The coaching staff hopes that incorporating more under-center plays will help generate that missing explosiveness.
Quarterback Joe Burrow acknowledged the increased focus on this scheme during practice, noting that the development had been positive. However, Burrow cautioned that the true effectiveness of the under-center offense, especially its impact on the run game, remains to be seen until real game situations where tackling is involved. He added that the team has invested in it and hopes it pays off. Burrow also expressed his adaptability to the new strategy, saying he can do whatever is asked of him and will evolve with the team's needs.
The offensive line, a critical component for a successful under-center scheme, has been rigorously trained in new blocking techniques throughout the summer. Offensive line coach Scott Peters confirmed the intense focus on this area, stating, “We're progressing.” Peters indicated that the offensive line appears to be the strongest of Burrow’s career this season. As a result, the coaching staff anticipates the unit will be able to create significant push in the running game, enabling the Bengals to establish a more powerful offensive style. Peters further elaborated that the run game is “really coming along for sure” due to the dedicated time spent emphasizing under-center run blocking techniques.
Tight end Erick All Jr. has been identified as a potential “X factor” for the Bengals' new under-center offense. The team had begun to incorporate more under-center runs with All's increasing role during his rookie season in 2024. However, those concepts were put on hold when All suffered a torn ACL, which sidelined him for the remainder of the 2024 season and all of 2025. Now back for 2026, All's return is seen as crucial. His unique skill set in the tight end room is expected to enable the offense to play with a more powerful style. All himself expressed his commitment to this role, stating his desire to "be a dog" when given the opportunity to block inline and to show he can challenge formidable defensive players.
Despite the renewed emphasis on under-center formations and the run game, the Bengals recognize that the core strength of their offense still lies with quarterback Joe Burrow, wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, and their established passing attack. However, integrating more under-center plays is expected to provide opposing defenses with a different look, potentially making the offense more consistent overall. Head coach Zac Taylor expressed confidence in the team's preparations, saying he feels good about where they are schematically and that they have a good inventory to draw from to be successful.
The Bengals will get their first true test of the new offensive concepts when they kick off their season on Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
