Joe Burrow Injury Update: When Can Bengals Fans Expect the QB to Return

Joe Burrow’s 2025 NFL season has been put on hold after the Cincinnati Bengals quarterback suffered a severe foot injury in Week 2 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The injury, diagnosed as a Grade 3 turf toe, required surgery and will keep the star signal-caller off the field for at least three months.

The Bengals, who entered the season hoping to rebound from a disappointing 2024, now face a major challenge without their franchise quarterback. Head coach Zac Taylor confirmed the news, stating that Burrow’s earliest possible return would be in December, depending on his recovery progress.

Joe Burrow Injury Update and Team’s Response

According to statements from coach Zac Taylor and multiple credible sports outlets including ESPN and NFL Network, Burrow sustained the injury after being tackled awkwardly during the Bengals’ Week 2 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Turf toe — especially Grade 3 — involves significant ligament damage and typically requires surgery followed by an extended rehabilitation period.

The Bengals quickly turned to backup quarterback Jake Browning, who has been the team’s primary No. 2 option for three seasons. Browning has a 4-4 record as a starter with a career completion rate of 69.9%, throwing for 2,317 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. While he struggled in his first 2025 start with a 48-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, Taylor expressed confidence in his ability to stabilize the offense. “I feel very confident in Jake,” Taylor said during a post-game press conference.

Behind Browning, Brett Rypien is listed as the next backup option. Rypien has shown inconsistency in past starts, completing just 58.3% of passes with more interceptions than touchdowns. The Bengals also signed veteran journeyman Mike White to bolster depth, while Sean Clifford remains on the practice squad as a developmental player.

Impact on Bengals Season and Playoff Hopes

The loss of Joe Burrow is a serious blow for a team that built its identity around his leadership and passing ability. Cincinnati’s offense now relies on Browning’s ability to stay efficient and limit turnovers, while the coaching staff may lean more on the running game and defensive playmaking to remain competitive.

If Burrow returns in December, the Bengals could have him back for a late-season playoff push — but that will depend heavily on how the team performs in his absence. Turf toe recovery can be unpredictable, especially after surgery, and rushing a return could risk aggravating the injury.

For now, Bengals fans must hope that Jake Browning can keep the team in playoff contention long enough for Burrow to make a healthy comeback late in the season. The official Joe Burrow injury update indicates December as the earliest possible return, but no guarantees have been made.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How long will Joe Burrow be out?

Burrow is expected to miss at least three months after undergoing surgery for a Grade 3 turf toe injury.

Q2: When could Joe Burrow return?

The earliest estimated return is December 2025, but it depends on his recovery progress.

Q3: Who is starting for the Bengals now?

Jake Browning is starting at quarterback while Burrow recovers. Brett Rypien is the backup.

Q4: How will this affect the Bengals’ playoff hopes?

The Bengals’ playoff chances depend on how well Jake Browning performs and whether the defense can carry more load until Burrow returns.

Q5: What is a Grade 3 turf toe injury?

It is a severe ligament tear at the base of the big toe that requires surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.