I was watching the first episode of this years Hard Knocks. I am a huge Bengals fan so this show provides an extra insight to how the players, coaches, and Mike Brown operate.

I was planning on talking about the practices, the players humor, and so on. But I can not take the image of Reggie Kelly being told that he was done for the year out of my head. He was the Bengals tight end. He is a leader for this team. A team that needs leadership at all times mind you. He was the heart and soul of the tight end group. As we, the fans have been told, the ultimate professional. He shows up, works hard, and tries to improve in every aspect.

While sitting on the exam table, or whatever area he was at, the Bengals trainer in a soft, sad voice told him he was done for the year. Reggie Kelly tries to fight back the tears but they start. A man who plays in the NFL in tears? That showed all of us how much he cared. He is a veteran who is nearing the end of a good career. From what we hear, he is a better person off the field than on it.

I think this also showed what type of owner the Bengals have. Mike Brown takes a LOT of heat for the way he operates his team, but no one can question his affection for his players. Making sure his coaches called Reggie was a nice thought. And hearing him speak of the other injury the team had with Ben Utect lets you know he cares.

As for Reggie, I hope his playing days do not end like this. No player wants to go out with an injury and not play again. But on the show, he mentioned being around and helping the other tight ends as much as he could. I can see a new career on the horizon if that is the path he takes. A tight end coach!

Let us know your thoughts on the show?!?!?!