Cincinnati Bengals Announce The Return Of Their Old Time Player…..
In the latest NFLPA report card, the Cincinnati Bengals found themselves at the bottom of the rankings for nutrition and cafeteria services, receiving an unprecedented F-minus in both categories. This troubling score has raised eyebrows among players and fans alike, particularly in a league where nutrition is becoming increasingly recognized as vital for performance and recovery.
According to ESPN’s Sarah Barshop, a veteran player expressed disappointment with the team’s food offerings, noting that the nutrition experience during his time at a Power Five school far surpassed what he currently encounters in the NFL. He highlighted the lack of diversity in meal options and the absence of tailored nutrition plans that were once available to him. โItโs a little more basic here,โ he lamented, adding that many players opt not to eat at the stadium at all. This sentiment is particularly concerning given the rigorous demands placed on professional athletes.
The report card, based on feedback from 1,706 players, paints a disheartening picture for the Bengals. They ranked 30th in food taste and 31st in freshness, suggesting that the quality of meals is not only unappealing but also potentially detrimental to players’ health and performance. The veteran emphasized that the team’s approach to nutrition seems outdated, with little support from a dedicated nutritionist. Instead, he described a system where food is simply prepared and placed out without consideration for individual dietary needs or preferences.
Adding to the woes, the Bengals were one of only two teams in the NFL that do not provide players with three meals a day. This oversight is particularly glaring as many players come to the facility on off days for additional preparation and recovery, only to find the cafeteria closed. This lack of accessibility to food could hinder playersโ ability to maintain optimal nutrition during crucial recovery periods.
The Bengals have made some efforts to improve, such as providing microwaves and coolers for players to store and reheat their own meals. However, these measures alone do not address the fundamental issues of variety and nutrition support that players expect at the professional level.