CINCINNATI -- Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow had gifts waiting for his offensive linemen following the team's walk-through prep session Thursday morning.
During the holiday season, quarterbacks bestow their on-field protectors with lavish gifts. Some buy expensive watches. Others give vehicles.
Burrow opted for something more unique -- genuine samurai swords.
When the offensive linemen walked into the team's equipment room, they each picked an ancient Japanese sword, some from as far back as 1550. Acquired from an armory in California, each gift came with a letter about its history.
"My favorite gift I've ever gotten by far because it's so different," said right guard Alex Cappa, who previously blocked for Tom Brady during their time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.