Return Of Cincinnati Bengals QB Joe Burrow Still Up In The Air
The Cincinnati Bengals received a dose of good news last week when quarterback Joe Burrow’s 21-day practice window was opened, signaling a potential return from a significant toe injury. While reports indicate his recovery is progressing well, a cloud of uncertainty still hangs over when—or if—he will take the field this season. The decision is complicated by his health, his desire to compete, and the team’s fading playoff hopes.
Cincinnati Bengals Joe Burrow Trying To Target Thanksgiving
Burrow has been sidelined for the past nine weeks after suffering a turf toe injury that required surgery in Week 2. The initial timeline suggested a minimum three-month recovery, making his return to practice a positive development. According to ESPN reports, the Bengals plan to increase his workload this week, and so far, his recovery has been smooth.
Burrow himself is reportedly eager to play, with insiders noting he is targeting a return for the team’s Thanksgiving matchup against the division-rival Baltimore Ravens. Getting back on the field for a crucial divisional game would be a meaningful step for the franchise quarterback. The team has until its Week 14 game against the Buffalo Bills to activate him from injured reserve, giving them some flexibility.
The Playoff Picture and Long-Term Health
The biggest factor influencing Burrow’s return is the Bengals’ current standing. Cincinnati started the season 2-0 with Burrow at the helm but has struggled mightily in his absence, falling to a 3-7 record. After losing six of their next seven games without him, the team’s playoff chances are slim.
This has created a dilemma for the organization. While a healthy Burrow could potentially spark a late-season surge, rushing him back could be a shortsighted gamble. With the team on the outside of the playoff picture, the front office must weigh the benefit of having him on the field against the risk of re-injury. Shutting him down for the season to ensure he is fully healthy for the future remains a distinct possibility, especially if the team suffers another loss and falls further out of contention.
In Burrow’s absence, the offense has been inconsistent. Jake Browning initially struggled, leading the team to trade for veteran Joe Flacco. While Flacco has had moments of success, including a win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team’s defensive issues have been too significant to overcome. The Bengals even lost a game in which Flacco threw for 470 yards and four touchdowns, highlighting that the team’s problems extend beyond the quarterback position.
For now, the Bengals and their fans are in a holding pattern. While Burrow is working his way back, his ultimate return this season depends on a complex calculation involving his health, the team’s record, and the long-term vision for their franchise star.
