Joe Burrow Important Injury Update: Will the Bengals Star Return in Week 8 vs. Jets?

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow will not play in Week 8 against the New York Jets as he continues to recover from turf-toe surgery. The latest Joe Burrow injury update confirms the star quarterback remains on injured reserve, with his return now expected closer to mid-December or later.

Burrow sustained the injury in Week 2 during the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The diagnosis revealed a severe Grade 3 turf-toe sprain that required surgery in September. Head coach Zac Taylor confirmed that Burrow’s rehabilitation is progressing, but the team will not rush his comeback.

Joe Burrow’s Recovery Timeline and Team Strategy

The Bengals placed Burrow on the injured reserve list following surgery, sidelining him for a minimum of four weeks. However, turf-toe injuries of this severity often require up to three months of recovery. Despite early optimism about a late-November return, medical experts now suggest that a realistic target would be the final two or three games of the regular season.

In Burrow’s absence, the Bengals have turned to Jake Browning at quarterback, while veteran Joe Flacco has been signed as additional support. Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher has emphasized simplifying the playbook and relying on the team’s running game to maintain balance. Wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase and running back Joe Mixon are expected to shoulder more of the offensive load.

According to sports medicine specialists, recovery from turf-toe surgery requires careful rehabilitation to prevent lingering pain or reinjury. Burrow’s team is reportedly focusing on flexibility and strength work, with comparisons drawn to Tom Brady’s strict diet and recovery methods. Experts say that reducing inflammation and improving mobility are key factors for a successful comeback.

Impact on the Bengals and the 2025 Season

Burrow’s absence has once again tested Cincinnati’s depth and adaptability. The Bengals, who started the season as playoff contenders, now face a challenging stretch without their leader under center. The coaching staff has stressed that long-term health is the priority, particularly after Burrow’s history of major injuries — including a torn ACL and MCL in his rookie season and a wrist ligament tear in 2023.

Despite setbacks, Burrow remains optimistic about returning before the end of the season. The Bengals’ training staff continues to monitor his progress closely, but as of now, the quarterback is ruled out for Week 8. His comeback timeline will depend on how his foot responds to increased movement in the coming weeks.

In summary, Joe Burrow’s Week 8 return is officially off the table. The Bengals will continue with Jake Browning at quarterback while Burrow focuses on a full recovery. A potential return in mid-December remains possible but unconfirmed.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Joe Burrow playing in Week 8 vs. the Jets?

No. The Bengals have confirmed that Burrow remains out due to his recovery from turf-toe surgery.

Q2: When did Joe Burrow have surgery?

He underwent the procedure in mid-September, shortly after suffering the injury against Jacksonville in Week 2.

Q3: What is Joe Burrow’s expected return date?

Initial reports indicated late November, but current expectations point to mid-December or the season’s final stretch.

Q4: Who is starting at quarterback for the Bengals?

Jake Browning is starting, with veteran Joe Flacco added as experienced backup support.

Q5: Has Joe Burrow had major injuries before?

Yes. He suffered a torn ACL and MCL in 2020 and a torn wrist ligament in 2023, both of which ended his seasons early.