AFC Notes: Bengals, Browns, Chargers

Bengals

Instead of installing their new offense by position, the Bengals are installing HC Zac Taylor‘s system as a complete offensive unit. 

“A lot of times the quarterbacks get all that information, you know why you’re calling it, you know what you want it in,” Bengals QB Andy Dalton said via Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer. “But now everyone’s getting that information. It makes it easier for guys to be on the same page, because they know why [a play] is called. That’s why it’s been really good.”

While there will be a lot of similarities to the Rams offense Taylor worked in, such as less shotgun and more play action under center, the Bengals won’t look like a carbon copy of the Rams. 

“Obviously, I’m not Jared and their receivers aren’t our guys,” Dalton said. “We do feel like we’ve got a really talented back like Todd Gurley, with Joe, and a guy that can spill ’em like Gio. It’s going to be tailored to fit us. The system’s not just the system. The system is built around our players, around our guys. It’s all set up for us to play fast and go score.”

Browns

• Nate Ulrich reports that Browns RB Duke Johnson and WR Odell Beckham reported to the team for the start of mandatory minicamp.
• Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer says RB Dontrell Hilliard and S Jermaine Whitehead have stood out during OTA’s so far. 

Chargers

• Chargers HC Anthony Lynn confirmed RB Melvin Gordon would attend the start of minicamp. (Jeff Miller)
• DE Melvin Ingram will also be in attendance. (Pro Football Talk)
• Lynn also said FB Derek Watt had shoulder surgery two weeks ago, which is why he has not been participating in OTA’s. There’s no time table for his return. (Eric Williams)
• The Chargers also held out second-round DB Nasir Adderley with an unspecified injury. (Williams)