Joe Burrow Injury Update: Projected Return Date for Bengals QB

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Cincinnati Bengals Face 2025 NFL Season Without Star Quarterback Joe Burrow

The Cincinnati Bengals embarked on the 2025 NFL season with aspirations to overcome their subpar 2024 performance and aim for the playoffs. However, their journey hit an obstacle as they are grappling with the absence of their iconic quarterback, Joe Burrow, due to a serious foot injury incurred during a thrilling 31-27 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 2. The injury struck as Burrow was tackled and twisted to the ground, necessitating assistance from the medical team to exit the field.

Details of Joe Burrow’s Injury Timeline and Recovery

Joe Burrow is sidelined by a Grade 3 turf toe injury, expected to keep him out for at least three months. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor confirmed that surgery is required, yet further updates remain sparse concerning Burrow’s exact return. A possible comeback in December depends heavily on his recovery progress and the Bengal’s position in the AFC playoff contention.

Backup Quarterback Jake Browning Takes Center Stage

Stepping into Burrow’s shoes is Jake Browning, the 29-year-old backup quarterback for the Bengals. Now in his fifth year with the team and third as the primary backup, Browning holds a 4-4 record as a starter. Although Browning struggled in Cincinnati’s 48-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, head coach Taylor remains optimistic about Browning’s capabilities to lead and potentially secure their playoff journey.

Examining the Bengals’ Quarterback Depth

Here’s a detailed look at the Bengals’ current quarterback lineup:

• Main Roster:
  • Jake Browning – Starter, holding already a challenging position with an up-and-down performance history.
  • Brett Rypien – Browning’s immediate backup, boasting a modest NFL record with significant room for growth.
• Practice Squad:
  • Mike White – Experienced journeyman with sporadic starting history, brought to enhance the squad’s depth following Burrow’s injury.
  • Sean Clifford – Youngest in the group, yet to make his NFL debut but exhibits potential to develop into a future starter.

Brett Rypien, a Boise State alumnus, is positioned to support Browning, compiling a 2-2 record across his brief starting tenure. Meanwhile, Mike White and Sean Clifford contribute as reserve players poised for potential call-up.

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