AFC Notes: Bengals, Browns, Ravens, Steelers

Bengals

• SI.com’s Elise Jesse reports that multiple sources have described the environment in the Bengals locker room as closer to college-level than a professional one, with one player adding: “It’s worse.”
• Others say there’s a disconnect between players and the coaching staff, which has boiled over in situations with DE Carlos Dunlap and WR John Ross. 
• Jesse says some sources have told her Bengals DC Lou Anarumo is unapproachable and regularly uses abusive language toward his players. Players also feel he singles some out unfairly. 
• She adds she’s heard of similar issues with OL coach Jim Turner, who had to apologize after calling OL Isaiah Prince a “thug” during a Zoom meeting this offseason.
• Turner also has his favorites, like G Michael Jordan, which limits competition along the Bengals offensive line, per Jesse.  
• However, Bengals RB Giovani Bernard defended the culture under HC Zac Taylor and called any anonymous criticism “soft.” (Paul Dehner Jr.)

Browns

• Per Tony Grossi, Browns HC Kevin Stefanski didn’t have much of an update on the status of CB Greedy Williams, who hasn’t played this season: “He continues to rehab like crazy. He’s working very, very hard. I’m disappointed for Greedy he’s not in there at this point, but I can promise you he’s working very hard.”
• Stefanski says DE Myles Garrett, FB Andy Janovich and DE Joe Jackson will be out this week but OL Chris Hubbard has a chance to come off the COVID-19 list in time to play. (Nate Ulrich)
• Browns placed LB Sione Takitaki on the COVID-19 list. (NFLTR)

Ravens

The Ravens issued the following statement on Wednesday regarding their COVID-19 situation:

“The Baltimore Ravens have disciplined a staff member for conduct surrounding the recent COVID-19 cases that have affected players and staff at the Ravens.”

Tom Pelissero reports that the Ravens have disciplined a strength and conditioning coach for not reporting symptoms and not consistently wearing a mask or tracking device, which may have contributed to the team’s rash of COVID-19 cases.

• According to Fansided’s Matt Lombardo, there’s a sense around the league that Ravens WR Dez Bryant could be on the cusp of a breakout performance and could become a part of Baltimore’s plans beyond this season. 
• Ravens placed DE Calais Campbell, OL Patrick Mekari and C Matt Skura on the COVID-19 list. (NFLTR)
• Ravens claimed OT Jake Rodgers off of waivers from the Broncos. (NFLTR)

Steelers

Steelers TE Eric Ebron wore out his welcome with each of his prior two teams, first with the Lions after they drafted him in the first round and then with the Colts after signing a two-year deal. But so far, everything is looking up in Pittsburgh, as his brash personality and skillset is fitting in well on an undefeated team. 

“Being me, you either like it or you hate it,” Ebron said via the Athletic’s Mark Kaboly. “I am not trying to be a butthole or trying to be anything else other than myself. I never planned on changing myself when I came here. I planned on being myself and make plays. No one is selfish, no one cares who gets the pill. No one cares who gets the first down or the touchdown.”