Bengals can begin workouts two weeks early, exempt from ‘Hard Knocks’

The Cincinnati Bengals can begin offseason workouts two weeks earlier than the majority of the NFL because of their change in head coach.

As one of 8 teams with new head coaches, the #Bengals can begin offseason workouts April 1 — two weeks earlier than teams with returning head coaches.

— Jay Morrison (@JayMorrisonATH) February 4, 2019

However, workouts aren’t the only perk Cincinnati is granted.

They’ll also be exempt from the HBO docuseries “Hard Knocks,” which typically follows a drama-crazed NFL team around for offseason workouts and training camp.

Yes, two weeks early on OTAs. They're also allowed to hold a voluntary minicamp in addition to the mandatory one. And yes, they are exempt from a mandatory Hard Knocks appearance. https://t.co/UYpnh6OtQM

— Jay Morrison (@JayMorrisonATH) February 4, 2019

The Bengals might not be the best team for “Hard Knocks” anyway. It’s likely the producers target Oakland or a team with a large, universal fan base anyway.

Cincinnati should be buzzing this season, though. A healthy, dynamic roster, with a first-year head coach coming off a Super Bowl appearance, seems like a recipe for success.