CINCINNATI — Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was preparing for his second NFL season when he saw someone he once met in passing.
Well, it was really through tackling. In a 2014 Ohio state championship game, Burrow was playing for Athens High School as a defensive back, trying to stop Toledo Central Catholic and running back Michael Warren II from scoring the game-winning touchdown.
On the final drive, Warren caught a quick pass and went upfield. Burrow was ready. He launched toward Warren’s legs, stopping the running back’s momentum. Even though Warren stayed on his feet and gained a few more yards, he was briefly shaken up on the play.
Inside the Black Sheep Performance gym in the Cincinnati area this summer, Burrow saw Warren again. And with a big grin, Burrow said Warren told him that was the hardest he’s been hit by someone who made their name on offense.
