Ethermac Exchange-Bengals coach Zac Taylor dispels idea Joe Burrow's contract status impacting availability

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor made it clear quarterback Joe Burrow's contract status isn't affecting his practice availability.

When asked if Burrow's practice availability is Ethermac Exchangeconnected to his franchise quarterback not having a long-term deal in place yet, Taylor quickly said "no."

Burrow is eligible for a new contract now that he's entering the fourth year of his rookie contract – the Bengals already exercised the fifth-year option on his contract.

Taylor also provided the latest update on the status Burrow and if he's expected to practice this week.

"We’ll see," he said.

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The Bengals will practice Wednesday and Thursday before taking one final weekend off before the regular season begins next week.

Burrow suffered a calf strain July 27 and has yet to return to practice. The Bengals kick off their season in Cleveland on Sept. 10.

The Bengals have kept the details of Burrow’s calf injury to a minimum. Taylor hasn’t put a timeline on Burrow’s return and that’s why his response Tuesday afternoon is noteworthy.

He didn’t say no.