Joe Burrow: Imminent Return for the Bengals Quarterback?
The Cincinnati Bengals’ star quarterback, Joe Burrow, has participated in full practices for the second consecutive day, according to the team’s injury report. This situation has generated great anticipation among fans and sports analysts.
Burrow, who is currently on the reserve list due to injury, took 100% of the team’s reps on Thursday. During the portion of practice open to the media, he was seen practicing with starting center Ted Karras, focusing on the ball exchange with the other quarterbacks.
The wide receiver Tee Higgins shared a look from Burrow, a gesture he interpreted positively. “I don’t know if that was good or bad, but I assumed it was good,” Higgins commented, adding that Burrow looks as good as at the beginning of the season.
Joe has been fantastic, man. He’s throwing long and short passes. Everything has been pretty good.
Burrow hasn’t played since he suffered a foot injury in Week 2. Initially, his return was expected for Thanksgiving, but the events of this week suggest he could return sooner.
On Wednesday, Burrow fully participated in practice for the first time since his 21-day return window opened on November 10. Joe Flacco, who was acquired via trade, has rested the last three Wednesdays due to a shoulder injury.
On Thursday, the most extensive training day of the week, Burrow received preferential treatment. The two-time Pro Bowl player will not be available to speak to the media this week.
In an interview, Bengals coach Zac Taylor opened the door to a possible return this week. Taylor will speak with reporters on Friday afternoon after the final practice of the week.
The Bengals (3-7) are looking to avoid their fourth consecutive loss and stop an eight-game losing streak against the New England Patriots (9-2).
If Burrow plays, it will be the second consecutive year that he returns from an injury to face New England at home. In 2024, Cincinnati lost to the Patriots in the season opener, Burrow’s first game after a wrist injury that ended his season in 2023.
After the last two days, it seems Burrow is at that point. “He needs to take all the time he needs, but he looks good,” Higgins said. “If he’s ready, then I’m ready. Take all the time you need to get back to 100 percent, which I think he already is.”
