CINCINNATI – Star quarterback Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals displayed a remarkable performance in practice, suggesting a potential return for the upcoming game against the New England Patriots. For the second consecutive day, Burrow participated fully, taking 100% of the team’s reps on Thursday, according to the team’s injury report.
During the media-accessible portion of practice, Burrow was seen working closely with starting center Ted Karras, focusing on ball exchanges. Notably, he was the first quarterback to throw during position drills, despite teammate Joe Flacco returning after a day off due to a shoulder injury. Although Burrow remains on injured reserve, his performance has sparked optimism among teammates and fans alike.
Wide receiver Tee Higgins offered insight into Burrow’s demeanor, recalling a knowing glance shared between them. “I don’t know if that was a good or bad, but I assumed good,” Higgins remarked. He emphasized Burrow’s impressive form, stating, “Joe’s been looking outstanding, man. He’s slinging it deep, short routes. Everything’s been pretty good.”
Burrow has been sidelined since suffering a turf toe injury in his left foot during Week 2 of the season. Initially targeting a return by Thanksgiving, recent developments indicate he could return even sooner. On November 10, 2023, the Bengals opened a 21-day window for Burrow’s return, and his full participation in practice this week marks a significant step forward.
Flacco, who has been nursing a sprained AC joint in his throwing shoulder, has missed the last three Wednesdays of practice. Typically, Thursday is when players receive their most extensive practice workload, yet Burrow’s performance has drawn attention, particularly as the team prepares for a lighter practice on Friday.
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor remains cautious. In an interview with radio station WLW, he indicated that further assessments are necessary before making a final decision. “I’m not there yet,” Taylor stated, adding that a single day of practice would not lead to immediate conclusions. Taylor is expected to address reporters again on Friday following the team’s final practice of the week.
The Bengals, currently with a record of 3-7, are eager to avoid their fourth consecutive loss and break an eight-game losing streak against the Patriots, who hold a record of 9-2. If Burrow takes the field, it will mark the second consecutive year he returns from injury to face New England at home. Last season, he faced the Patriots in the 2024 season opener after recovering from a wrist injury that had sidelined him for the majority of the previous season.
Teammates have consistently stressed the importance of patience in Burrow’s recovery process. Higgins echoed this sentiment, noting, “He needs to take as much time as he needs, but I mean, he looks good. If he’s ready, then I’m ready. Take as much time as you need to get back to 100 percent, which I think he is [at] now.” As the Bengals prepare for Sunday’s game, all eyes remain on Burrow and his potential return to the starting lineup.
