Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow will undergo surgery for a turf toe injury, sidelining him for at least three months, according to head coach Zac Taylor. The injury occurred during Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, forcing Burrow to leave the field in the second quarter. Despite the setback, backup quarterback Jake Browning led the team to a thrilling comeback victory, showcasing his capability to lead the offense in Burrow's absence.
Browning's performance against the Jaguars, completing 21 of 32 passes for 241 yards and two touchdowns, provides a glimmer of hope for the Bengals. His previous performance filling in for Burrow in 2023, where he compiled a 4-3 record and a 70% completion rate, further solidifies his potential as a reliable starter. The team's upcoming schedule, including a challenging matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, will test Browning's mettle and the team's ability to adapt.
The Bengals' immediate focus shifts to recalibrating their offensive strategy to maximize Browning's strengths. While Browning demonstrated his prowess in the victory over Jacksonville, scoring 24 points in three quarters, including the game-winning drive, the team will require a significant defensive improvement to maintain their winning momentum. A realistic goal for the Bengals is to stay competitive and aim for a .500 record until Burrow's potential return in mid-December. However, this scenario hinges on several factors, including Browning's continued strong play and improved defensive performance.
Burrow's injury adds to a list of unfortunate setbacks in his young career, including an ACL tear in 2020, a wrist injury in 2023, and now this turf toe injury. While the timeline for his return remains uncertain, the team anticipates a lengthy rehabilitation process. His previous experiences with injuries, including a calf injury in 2023 where an aggressive return worsened the timeline, will inform his approach to recovery. Coach Taylor emphasized the importance of balancing rehabilitation with the need to avoid pushing Burrow too hard, too soon.
The Bengals' success during Burrow's absence will depend largely on the team's collective efforts. While Browning shows promise, consistent offensive production and enhanced defensive performance will be essential. The team's ability to adapt and perform well throughout this challenging period will determine their postseason prospects and Burrow's potential impact upon his eventual return.
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Originally published at: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6630700/2025/09/15/joe-burrow-injury-toe-bengals/
