Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was officially placed on injured reserve after suffering a turf toe injury in a Week 2 win against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The injury, which occurred on September 14, requires surgery and is expected to sideline him for about three months. However, head coach Zac Taylor has not ruled out the possibility of Burrow returning later this season, leaving the door open for a potential comeback.
Taylor Remains Hopeful For Burrow As Browning Leads Bengals Toward Historic Season Start
Speaking on Wednesday, Taylor emphasized that the team has not shut down Burrow for the year, but he acknowledged that the immediate focus is on Burrow’s recovery and the mandatory minimum of four weeks on injured reserve. As of midweek, no surgery date had been confirmed. Taylor stressed that while a return is possible, the team can only take things one step at a time.
Joe Burrow (NFL)With Burrow sidelined, Jake Browning will step in as the starting quarterback against the Minnesota Vikings. Cincinnati, now aiming for its first 3-0 start since 2015, will rely on Browning’s familiarity with Minnesota, where he previously spent time on the practice squad. Despite limited NFL experience, Taylor expressed confidence in Browning’s ability to lead the offense.
Browning Faces Former Team As Bengals Battle Playoff Doubts Without Injured Burrow
Browning, who went undrafted in 2019, spent two years on the Vikings’ practice squad before being released in 2021. He later joined the Bengals and, in 2023, helped secure a win over Minnesota with a pointed remark directed at his former team. Heading into this week’s matchup, however, Browning insists he has moved on from that chapter, focusing instead on preparation and execution.
Despite their undefeated start, oddsmakers remain skeptical about Cincinnati’s postseason chances. ESPN BET lists the Bengals at +140 to make the playoffs, reflecting doubts about the team’s ability to thrive without Burrow. Browning, unfazed by outside opinions, said he is focused on mastering the game plan and not on public perception, determined to prove he can keep the Bengals competitive in Burrow’s absence.
