Will Cincinnati Bengals Star Quarterback Joe Burrow Play In Week 12?
It’s the news every Bengals fan has been praying for. The man, the myth, the legend, Joe Burrow, is back on the practice field. And not just jogging on the sidelines, either. We’re talking a full participant, slinging the pigskin in 11-on-11 drills. Let the heavenly choirs sing.
After a turf toe injury in Week 2 that required surgery and sent a wave of despair across Cincinnati, the franchise quarterback is making a recovery that can only be described as superhuman. Remember when the timeline was “Thanksgiving-ish”? Well, Burrow decided to attack his rehab like it was a blitzing linebacker, and now, a return feels closer than ever.
So, Will Joe Burrow Play This Sunday?
Hold your horses, Who Dey Nation. While seeing Burrow listed as a “full participant” is cause for celebration, it doesn’t automatically mean he’s starting against the Patriots this Sunday. Coach Zac Taylor is playing this one close to the chest, saying they’ll “go from there” after seeing how Burrow handles the increased workload.
The real test will be how that surgically-repaired toe feels on Thursday morning. Turf toe is a notoriously tricky injury. One wrong step, one awkward plant, and you’re back to square one. The Bengals have a 21-day window to activate him from the Injured Reserve list, so they have time to be cautious. But let’s be real, with the season hanging by a thread, the temptation to get their QB1 back on the field is immense.
What Does Burrow’s Return Mean For the Bengals?
Let’s face it, the Bengals’ season has been about as fun as a root canal. With backup Joe Flacco managing a shoulder injury of his own, the offense has lacked its signature electricity. A loss to the Patriots this weekend would all but slam the door on any faint playoff hopes. But with Burrow, there’s always a chance.
Even a slightly hobbled Burrow gives this team a swagger and a belief that’s been sorely missed. He’s the guy who can make something out of nothing, the leader who can elevate everyone around him. However, his return isn’t without its own drama. If he does play, he’ll be without his top target, Ja’Marr Chase, who’s serving a one-game suspension for, let’s just say, an “expectorating incident” with Jalen Ramsey.
Ultimately, the decision to play him rests with the medical staff and Coach Taylor. Is it worth risking their franchise player for a slim shot at a miracle run? Or do they play the long game? For fans who’ve been starved for good news, just seeing Burrow back in pads is a victory in itself. The comeback is on.
