What Happened to Joe Burrow? Latest Injury Update on Bengals Quarterback

Joe Burrow is out for a long stretch after suffering a severe turf toe injury in Week 2 of the 2025 NFL season. The Cincinnati Bengals confirmed the star quarterback needed surgery, and his recovery could keep him sidelined for most of the regular season.

The injury happened during the Bengals’ 31-27 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars when Burrow was tackled from behind and twisted awkwardly. He needed help leaving the field and later underwent surgery to repair a Grade 3 turf toe — the most severe form of the injury.

Joe Burrow Injury Timeline and Expected Return

According to NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport, Burrow is expected to miss “at least three months.” That timeline suggests the earliest return would be around December 19, which is Week 16 of the NFL season. FOX Sports’ Jay Glazer, however, believes it could take even longer for Burrow to return to game action.

Head coach Zac Taylor confirmed that Burrow had surgery but has not committed to a specific return date. The Bengals may only activate him late in the season if they remain in playoff contention. If the team’s postseason hopes fade, they might opt to keep Burrow out to avoid risking his long-term health.

Grade 3 turf toe is a complete tear of the ligament under the big toe, often requiring surgical repair and a long recovery. This injury can be career-impacting for athletes who rely on quick push-offs and explosive footwork, making a cautious approach vital for Burrow’s future.

Jake Browning has stepped in as the starting quarterback. The 29-year-old posted a 4-4 record as a starter before this season and is now tasked with keeping the Bengals competitive. Brett Rypien backs him up, with Mike White and Sean Clifford on the practice squad.

Impact on the Bengals and Their Playoff Hopes

The Bengals’ offense faces a major test without Burrow. The team struggled in Browning’s first 2025 start, falling 48-10 to the Minnesota Vikings. Cincinnati’s ability to stay alive in the AFC playoff race will likely determine if Burrow sees the field again this year.

Losing Burrow early in the season is a huge blow for a team trying to rebound from a disappointing 2024 campaign. If the Bengals’ offensive line issues persist and the backup quarterbacks fail to keep pace, the team could be out of contention before Burrow is healthy enough to return.

For now, Burrow’s expected recovery timeline remains at least three months, with the earliest possible return in late December. His future this season depends heavily on whether Cincinnati can stay competitive without him.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Joe Burrow’s injury?

He suffered a Grade 3 turf toe, which is a complete ligament tear in the big toe and required surgery.

Q2: When could Joe Burrow return?

The earliest possible return is around December 19 (Week 16), but it could take longer depending on recovery.

Q3: Who is replacing Joe Burrow?

Jake Browning is starting at quarterback, with Brett Rypien as backup and Mike White and Sean Clifford on the practice squad.

Q4: Will the Bengals keep Burrow out if they miss the playoffs?

Yes, the team could decide to rest him for the season if they fall out of playoff contention.

Q5: How severe is a Grade 3 turf toe?

It’s the most serious type of turf toe, often requiring surgery and months of recovery, with potential long-term impact on foot strength.