The Cincinnati Bengals will navigate the majority of the upcoming 2025 NFL campaign without their star quarterback, Joe Burrow. The team disclosed on Monday that Burrow is slated to undergo a surgical procedure on his toe. According to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the injury could sideline Burrow for a period of at least three months.
Burrow’s injury occurred during the Bengals’ Week 2 contest against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Following a sack by Arik Armstead in the second quarter, Burrow was observed on the ground, appearing to clutch near his ankle area. He received immediate medical attention on the field before being escorted to the sideline medical tent.
Burrow initially attempted to walk towards the team’s locker room unassisted but eventually required support from two trainers.
Initially, the Bengals listed Burrow as questionable to return, citing a toe injury. However, by the conclusion of the third quarter, the team officially ruled him out for the remainder of the game. Reports indicated that Burrow underwent an MRI scan during the third quarter and required a scooter for mobility post-imaging. After the game, he was spotted wearing a walking boot and utilizing a crutch for support.
Prior to the injury, Burrow showcased his customary strong performance. He completed 7 of 13 pass attempts for 76 yards and a touchdown.
With Burrow unavailable, the Bengals turned to their backup quarterback, Jake Browning, who engineered a game-winning drive in the closing moments, securing a score with just 19 seconds remaining, resulting in a 31-27 victory for the Bengals.
With Burrow on the sidelines, Browning is expected to assume the role of the team’s primary starter.
“We have extensive confidence in Jake,” coach Zac Taylor remarked on Monday.
Browning has prior experience in this capacity, having started seven games for the team during Burrow’s injury absence in 2023. During that period, Browning delivered a solid performance, recording 12 touchdowns against seven interceptions across nine games. His completion rate of 70.4 percent led the league that season.
With Burrow’s return to full health in 2024, Browning’s appearances were limited to three games, during which he did not attempt any passes.
Brett Rypien is currently part of the team’s practice squad and is a candidate to serve as Browning’s backup. In addition, the team bolstered its quarterback depth on Tuesday, signing both Mike White and Sean Clifford, according to Schefter. Both players have been assigned to the team’s practice squad.
It’s challenging to exaggerate Burrow’s significance to the Bengals. When in optimal health, he stands out as one of the NFL’s premier quarterbacks. In the previous season, Burrow topped all passers with 4,918 yards and 43 touchdown passes.
Following their Sunday victory, the Bengals hold a 2-0 record to commence the 2025 NFL season.
