Bengals clear All Jr and Lew for training camp following ACL recovery

The Cincinnati Bengals have confirmed that tight end Erick All Jr and centre Connor Lew are medically cleared to participate in training camp, marking a significant step in their recovery from anterior cruciate ligament injuries. The organisation views the clearances as positive indicators for squad depth and overall health as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

All Jr suffered an ACL injury during Week 9 of his rookie campaign in 2024, which sidelined him for the remainder of that season. According to NBC 5 reporter Charlie Clifford, the tight end has been cleared for full activity but will adhere to a specific progression plan designed to ease him back into full camp operations.

Connor Lew’s path to the roster involved a more complex timeline. The centre tore his left ACL in October prior to the draft and was subsequently selected by the Bengals in April. Duke Tobin, identified as the team’s de facto general manager, stated that Lew will also follow a progression plan to reintegrate into heavy action, with the coaching staff closely monitoring his performance during the early stages of camp.

Reports from journalist Joe Goodberry indicate that the organisation is not overly concerned about offensive line depth regarding the third-string tackle position, often referred to as OT3. This suggests that Lew’s clearance alleviates immediate pressure on the roster’s structural depth, allowing for a gradual integration into more demanding training activities.

These developments represent a shift for a franchise that has struggled with consistency in player availability. Management has expressed optimism about achieving a level of health and squad cohesion that has not been seen in recent years, with the structured return of these two rookies serving as a foundational element of that strategy.