The Cincinnati Bengals have confirmed that star quarterback Joe Burrow will not be making his return to the field this Sunday against the New England Patriots. This decision comes despite the player's encouraging return to training last week.
Burrow's Setback and the Patriots Challenge
The Bengals faced a Saturday deadline of 4pm to activate Burrow from the injured list, but according to NFL insider Adam Schefter, the team has chosen not to do so. This means the signal-caller will be sidelined for the tough matchup against the 9-2 New England Patriots. Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco is set to start under center once again, pushing Burrow's official comeback to the Thanksgiving game against the Baltimore Ravens.
Burrow has been out of action since suffering a Grade 3 turf toe injury in Week 2 of the NFL season. His return to training was remarkably swift, occurring just two months after he underwent surgery on the injured toe.
A Season Derailed by Injury
The Bengals' fortunes have dramatically shifted since Burrow's injury. The team was 2-0 when he was sidelined. Burrow marked the moment on social media, writing, 'This game will break your heart. See you soon.' His words proved prophetic.
In the subsequent weeks, the team suffered a series of heavy defeats. Week 3 saw Cincinnati endure its worst loss in franchise history, a 48-10 blowout against the Minnesota Vikings with Jake Browning at quarterback. Browning started two more games, resulting in losses to the Broncos and Lions, before the team traded for Flacco.
Flacco's Role and The Road Ahead
While Flacco led the team to a victory in his first game against the Steelers, the Bengals have since suffered back-to-back losses against the Jets, Bears, and Steelers. This has left them with a disappointing 3-7 record for the season.
Despite the team's struggles, the 40-year-old Flacco has performed impressively. The primary issue in recent weeks has been the Bengals' defence, which has repeatedly let the team down. The hope now rests on Flacco's shoulders to keep the season alive until Burrow's much-needed return.
This is not the first time Burrow's career has been interrupted by a significant injury. Just two years ago, he missed the final seven games of the 2023 season due to a wrist injury. His rookie season in 2020 also ended prematurely after he tore his ACL, PCL, MCL, and meniscus.
