Bengals Reportedly Considered Giving Rookie WR John Ross Reps At Cornerback

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, citing multiple sources, reports that the Bengals discussed the idea of possibly taking some reps at cornerback with rookie WR John Ross before recently placing him on injured reserve.

However, Florio says it’s unclear whether the Bengals seriously considered moving Ross to cornerback.

A source tells Florio that this was mentioned in connection with injury issues at the position while other sources believe that this could be an indication that the Bengals’ coaching staff has some concerns about Ross’ toughness.

Jim Owczarski mentions that Bengals HC Marvin Lewis actually joked about this being a potential option for Ross, given that they were dealing with some injuries at cornerback.

Ross has world class speed and holds the fastest 40-yard dash in the history of the NFL’s Scouting Combine. Although, there are major injury concerns regarding Ross dating back to his time in college.

Ross, 22, was selected with the No. 9 overall pick by the Bengals in this year’s draft. He possesses world-class speed and posted a Combine record 4.22 forty-yard dash, breaking the mark held by Chris Johnson.

Ross signed a four-year contract worth $17,115,864 and included a signing bonus of $10,587,900 with the Bengals. The contract also has a fifth-year option for the team to consider in 2020.

The Bengals placed him on injured reserve a few weeks ago with a left shoulder injury that required surgery. 

During his college career, Ross totaled 114 receptions for 1,729 yards receiving and 20 touchdowns for the Huskies over the course of 40 games. He also contributed 2,069 kick return yards and four touchdowns over the course of three seasons.