Joe Burrow’s newest receiver is already finding out what makes the Bengals’ quarterback ‘one of the best in the league’

Colbie Young is getting used to catching passes from Joe Burrow. It hasn’t taken him long to see what makes his new QB so special.

John Sheeran Cincinnati Bengals News Writer
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Feb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Georgia wideout Colbie Young (WO46) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center.
Feb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Georgia wideout Colbie Young (WO46) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

Colbie Young is getting used to catching passes from Joe Burrow.

The Cincinnati Bengals’ newest wide receiver is going through his first NFL offseason fresh off being drafted No. 140 overall by Cincy in the 2026 NFL Draft.

It hasn’t taken him long to see what makes his new QB so special.

Colbie Young’s first impression of Joe Burrow

Young is participating in offseason workouts leading up to his first week of OTAs. Burrow has fully returned to work in Cincinnati, and his arm talent has already left an impression on the 23-year old rookie.

“[Burrow’s] throws are perfect, honestly,” Young told Dan Hoard. “He’s one of the best quarterbacks in the league and the way he takes time out of his day to perfect his craft just shows the effort he puts in to win.”

Colbie Young Stats & Facts

Cincinnati’s fourth-round pick has experienced quite the journey to the NFL.

  • Young started his college career at Lackawanna College in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He was a no-star recruit out of high school.
  • Miami (Fl.) landed Young as a transfer in 2022. He put up 79 receptions for 930 yards and 10 touchdowns in two seasons.
  • Young transferred a third time in 2024 to Georgia, where he would play just 13 games due to suspension and injury. He posted 37 receptions, 507 yards, and three TDs.

Starters away means Young gets reps

Young is liking what he’s seeing from his new QB, and he’s seeing more passes come his way due to the absences of those ahead of him on the depth chart.

Ja’Marr Chase is currently away from the club conducting his own offseason workout schedule. Tee Higgins has been in and out of workouts and wasn’t present for Tuesday’s session.

It’s normal for high-caliber veterans to be non-participants in voluntary workouts, especially prior to OTAs starting up. Burrow already has a supreme level of chemistry with both of his top wideouts.

Young has ways to go before reaching that, which is why he’s benefitting greatly from Chase and Higgins being away from the team.

Not only is Young getting accustomed to how Burrow places the ball, he’s getting needed reps as he learns the playbook an offense with 11 returning starters has essentially mastered.

This time of year is invaluable for a Day 3 draft pick like Young. He’s off to a good start, and knows exactly what opportunity is in front of him playing with a passer like Burrow.