Joe Burrow’s Turf Toe Injury Sidelines Bengals QB for Crucial Steelers Matchup

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow will not play against the Pittsburgh Steelers today. The star player continues to recover from a significant foot injury. The Week 7 NFL game will proceed without its biggest attraction at Paycor Stadium.

Burrow has been out since a Week 2 contest against the Jacksonville Jaguars. His absence has left a major void in the Bengals’ offense.

Understanding the Severity of a Grade 3 Turf Toe

Joe Burrow suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury. This is a severe sprain of the main joint in the big toe. According to the Cleveland Clinic, it involves a full tear of the soft tissues.

The injury occurs when the toe is forced into hyperextension. This often happens on artificial turf, which is less forgiving than grass. The pain and swelling are severe, making athletic movement nearly impossible.

The Bengals’ record has suffered without their starting quarterback. The team has lost four consecutive games, sliding to a 2-4 record. This places their playoff hopes in serious jeopardy.

Long-Term Impact on the Bengals’ Season

Burrow’s recovery timeline is estimated at three months. This projection was confirmed by team medical staff. It means a return to the field is unlikely before December.

The team must now rely on backup quarterback Jake Browning. This presents a significant challenge in the highly competitive AFC North. Every game without Burrow increases the difficulty of a postseason push.

Fans and analysts are now questioning the team’s ability to salvage the season. The offense has looked noticeably less dynamic. The upcoming schedule offers little respite for the struggling Bengals.

The Cincinnati Bengals face a steep climb without their franchise quarterback. Joe Burrow’s turf toe injury has fundamentally altered the team’s prospects. His eventual return in December may be too late for a playoff run.

Info at your fingertips

What exactly is a turf toe injury?

A turf toe is a sprain of the main joint in the big toe. It happens when the toe bends too far upward, stretching or tearing ligaments. This injury is common in football due to play on hard artificial surfaces.

How long is Joe Burrow expected to be out?

Burrow is expected to miss approximately three months of action. This timeline follows surgery to repair the damaged tissues in his toe. A return in December is the current best-case scenario.

Who is playing quarterback for the Bengals now?

Jake Browning has taken over as the starting quarterback. He has started the last several games for the injured Burrow. The team’s performance has struggled significantly during this period.

What is the Bengals’ record without Joe Burrow?

The Bengals have lost four straight games since Burrow’s injury. Their overall record has fallen to two wins and four losses. The team was 1-1 before Burrow left the lineup.

Why is this injury so serious for a quarterback?

A turf toe injury severely limits a quarterback’s ability to push off their back foot. This action is critical for throwing with power and accuracy. The pain also prevents the explosive movement needed to evade pass rushers.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters, Cleveland Clinic