Bengals WR Andrei Iosivas Strives to Maintain Confidence Amid Dropped Passes
The Cincinnati Bengals’ offense has experienced a revival with the addition of quarterback Joe Flacco. Notably, star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase is enjoying one of the best three-game stretches in NFL history. Also, the run game has amassed 378 yards, marking the team’s best performance over a three-game stretch since 2022. Additionally, the offensive line has shown significant improvement, allowing just four sacks and 12 quarterback hits.
While the team is thriving, wide receiver Andrei Iosivas is facing challenges. Due to Mike Gesicki’s injury, Iosivas has had to step up. However, he has struggled to capitalize on the opportunity, recording four catches and four drops across 11 targets in the three games since Flacco took charge, as noted by Pro Football Focus.
Iosivas’s Journey: Maintaining Confidence Amid Challenges
This past week, when asked about his confidence, Iosivas remarked, “It’s fine.” He emphasized that he continues to work hard, believing that the plays will come in due time. “I’m just gonna stay steady, and the course will be its course. I know that my best is good enough, so I just gotta keep playing like that,” he stated.
Performance Overview
- Three drops occurred in Week 6 against Green Bay.
- In the recent match against the Jets, Iosivas was credited with one drop on a crucial final drive.
- Despite the struggles, he had a career-high 82 receiving yards against the Lions in Week 5.
- In three games with Flacco, Iosivas has accumulated 55 receiving yards.
Head coach Zac Taylor expressed his belief in Iosivas, acknowledging that there are plays he wishes he could have executed differently. “I’ve got a lot of faith in Andre,” Taylor said. Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher echoed this sentiment, noting that Iosivas has made impactful plays, such as a critical third-down reception that set up a touchdown in the Pittsburgh game.
Looking Ahead
Despite the pressure of increased expectations and a challenging start, Iosivas is poised to improve. His normally vibrant personality was less visible following the Jets loss, reflecting the weight of missed opportunities. Iosivas understands his role within the team and stated, “Everybody needs to make plays for us to win in a team sport. So, yeah, I just gotta make the plays when they come to me.”
As the Bengals continue to rely on their offensive players, Iosivas must find a way to shake off the recent setbacks and focus on contributing to the team’s success.
