Bryan Cook is bringing swagger to the Bengals defense, and he let Ja’Marr Chase know it

The Cincinnati Bengals defense has been getting the best of the offense through the first week of training camp. We have seen a plethora of guys on the defensive line making plays.

The second-year linebackers were getting in the mix with some big plays of their own. DJ Turner has been going toe to toe with Ja’Marr Chase since day one of camp.

On Tuesday morning, it was the Bengals safety addition Bryan Cook getting in the mix with a big play of his own. Cook had an interception of Joe Burrow, returning it for a pick-six during a portion of 11-on-11 work.

The Cincinnati Bengals have high expectations for Cook. He was their first signing during free agency this off-season. Agreeing to a 3-year $42.5 million contract. After having Nick Scott and Geno Stone as starting safeties since the departure of Jessie Bates, they went out and spent big money on the position.

Cook is coming off his best season as a professional in 2025. He recorded 85 tackles, along with six pass breakups on the season. The former Super Bowl champion and Cincinnati Bearcat alum isn’t afraid to talk that talk off of the field either.

Cook and Chase had a fun exchange in the locker room after the Tuesday training camp practice. Ja’Marr walked by and said ‘Throw it over top of him”. With Cook replying back, “When did you catch a ball at all. Any deep ball?”

It is a welcome sign to see the defense playing with confidence. The acquisitions of veterans like Cook, Mafe, Allen, and Lawrence allow this to be more than just talk. With the season about a month away, it won’t be long until they can show the rest of the NFL what this defense is all about.