The Cincinnati Bengals arrived in Madrid early this week for their NFL International Series game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, and quarterback Joe Burrow has taken full advantage of the trip. Burrow visited the Museo del Prado on Wednesday, calling the experience "cool," and expressed enthusiasm about exploring more museums, art galleries, and shopping on Friday evening. The Bengals' schedule included a day off Wednesday, allowing players to acclimate to the six-hour time difference and enjoy the Spanish capital.
Burrow, who had requested to play in Spain after the NFL announced Madrid as a host city, said he appreciates the relative anonymity he experiences abroad, though he was recognized by a group of American students studying in Madrid. He also revealed his dislike for packing suitcases, delegating the task to his mother and assistant Kyle Smith.
Right tackle Amarius Mims visited the Real Casa de Correos and met local police officers, while also adjusting to the time change after a disrupted sleep schedule. The Bengals' offensive line was spotted walking around Madrid and encountered a Bengals fan, highlighting the strong presence of Cincinnati supporters in the city. Wide receiver Tee Higgins, making his first trip to Europe, described crossing the Atlantic as "surreal" and plans to enjoy the short stay with his family. Higgins leads the team with 43 catches for 726 yards this season, forming a productive tandem with Ja'Marr Chase.
Chase initially struggled to find food he liked but has since adjusted. The Bengals enter the game at 5-2, and a victory would set up an AFC North showdown with the Pittsburgh Steelers next week. Burrow called the trip a "dream come true" and the team aims to cap the experience with a win over the Falcons on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. ET.
