Joe Burrow Injury Update: Bengals QB Faces Long Recovery After Turf Toe Setback
The Cincinnati Bengals’ strong start to the 2025 NFL season has been overshadowed by devastating news: quarterback Joe Burrow is feared to have suffered a serious toe injury that could sideline him for at least three months.
Joe Burrow Suffers Grade 3 Turf Toe Injury
According to reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, Burrow is believed to have sustained a Grade 3 turf toe injury in the Bengals’ Week 2 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. The setback likely requires surgery and could keep him out until mid-December at the earliest.
The injury occurred in the second quarter of the Bengals’ 31-27 win. Burrow was later spotted leaving the field in a walking boot and using a crutch, signaling yet another frustrating setback in his young but injury-riddled career.
Bengals Beat Jaguars Behind Jake Browning
Backup quarterback Jake Browning stepped in and delivered a mixed performance, throwing for 241 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions. Despite the turnovers, Browning helped Cincinnati secure its first 2-0 start since 2018, a boost in morale as the team braces for life without its franchise star.
Burrow’s Injury History Raises Concerns
This isn’t the first time Burrow has been sidelined with a major injury:
- 2020: His rookie year ended early after he tore his ACL, PCL, MCL, and meniscus.
- 2023: He missed the final six games of the season due to a torn wrist ligament.
- 2025: Now, a severe toe injury threatens to derail what began as a promising campaign.
If the timetable holds, Burrow could return by December, but the Bengals must navigate most of the season without their leader under center.
Can Jake Browning Keep the Bengals in Playoff Contention?
Browning proved in 2023 that he could step up in Burrow’s absence, going 4-3 as a starter while completing 70.4% of his passes for 1,936 yards. With Cincinnati boasting a deep roster and a 2-0 cushion, the team may be in a slightly better position than in past seasons.
Still, losing Burrow — widely considered one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks — is a massive blow to their Super Bowl hopes.
What’s Next for the Bengals?
The Bengals now turn the page quickly, with their first full game without Burrow coming in Week 3 against the Minnesota Vikings on the road. Head coach Zac Taylor will rely on Browning to manage the offense while leaning on the team’s defense and playmakers to keep them in contention.
Final Thoughts: A Season on Hold
Burrow’s latest setback is a gut punch for both the Bengals and their fans. While the team is in better shape than during his past injuries, the reality is clear: Cincinnati’s playoff hopes now hinge on how well Jake Browning can guide the offense until their superstar quarterback returns.
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FAQs
What injury did Joe Burrow suffer in Week 2 of the 2025 NFL season?
Joe Burrow is feared to have sustained a Grade 3 turf toe injury, which typically requires surgery and could sideline him for at least three months.
How long will Joe Burrow be out?
If surgery is confirmed, Burrow’s recovery timeline suggests he may not return until mid-December 2025, making this one of the longest absences of his career.
Who is the Bengals’ starting quarterback with Burrow injured?
With Burrow sidelined, Jake Browning will take over as the Bengals’ starting quarterback. He previously filled in during the 2023 season, going 4-3 as a starter.
Has Joe Burrow had major injuries before?
Yes. Burrow has battled multiple serious injuries:
- Torn ACL, PCL, MCL, and meniscus in 2020
- Wrist ligament tear in 2023
- Turf toe injury in 2025
Can the Bengals still make the playoffs without Joe Burrow?
The Bengals are currently 2-0 for the first time since 2018, giving them some breathing room. If Jake Browning performs well and the defense steps up, Cincinnati could stay in playoff contention until Burrow returns.
