Why Joe Burrow Isn’t Playing vs Pittsburgh Steelers Tonight: Positive Injury Update for Bengals Fans

Cincinnati Bengals star quarterback Joe Burrow is not suiting up for the team’s crucial Week 7 clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday night. Burrow, who has been sidelined since suffering a turf toe injury in Week 2 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, remains on the injured reserve list but is expected to make a return later this season.

Despite not playing, Burrow was on the sidelines supporting his teammates as veteran quarterback Joe Flacco led the Bengals’ offense against an Aaron Rodgers-led Steelers squad. While Burrow’s absence is a major blow, there’s encouraging news for Cincinnati fans looking ahead to the rest of the season.

Joe Burrow Injury Update and Return Timeline

The Bengals placed Joe Burrow on injured reserve following a turf toe injury he sustained in the second week of the season. The injury occurred after he was sacked by Jacksonville defensive tackle Arik Armstead, and Burrow underwent surgery last month to repair the damage. The setback was significant enough to sideline him for multiple weeks, prompting the team to turn to experienced backup Joe Flacco to guide the offense.

According to a report from NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, Burrow is “right on track” with his recovery and could potentially return by mid-December. This timeline suggests he may still have a chance to lead Cincinnati into a potential playoff push if the team remains in contention.

Head coach Zac Taylor echoed optimism before Thursday’s game, emphasizing the team’s focus despite Burrow’s absence. “We want to win. We’re hungry for it,” Taylor said. “We’ve got to do a better job from start to finish getting that done, but there’s a lot here.”

Flacco, who started again on Thursday night, is no stranger to the Bengals’ system. In last week’s 27-18 loss to the Green Bay Packers, he threw for 219 yards and two touchdowns, though most of his production came in the second half after Cincinnati trailed 10-0 at halftime.

How Burrow’s Absence Impacts the Bengals’ Season

Burrow’s injury has been a major storyline for Cincinnati, as the team’s offensive identity revolves around his leadership and playmaking ability. Without him, the Bengals have had to adapt their offensive approach, relying more heavily on the run game and short passing routes to accommodate Flacco’s style.

Still, the Bengals’ coaching staff and players remain confident that Burrow’s return could reignite their playoff hopes. A mid-December comeback would align with the final stretch of the regular season — potentially just in time for key divisional matchups that could determine postseason positioning.

Meanwhile, the team’s depth chart shows that the Bengals have solid options around Flacco. Wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins remain explosive weapons, while tight ends Drew Sample and Mike Gesicki are expected to be crucial safety valves. On the defensive side, stars like Trey Hendrickson and Logan Wilson continue to anchor the unit as the team battles through a challenging AFC North race.

For now, Cincinnati fans will need to be patient, but all signs point to Joe Burrow making a return this season — and possibly leading a late surge for the playoffs.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why isn’t Joe Burrow playing against the Steelers tonight?

Joe Burrow is recovering from a turf toe injury suffered in Week 2 against Jacksonville. He underwent surgery and remains on injured reserve.

Q2: When is Joe Burrow expected to return?

According to NFL Network, Burrow is on track to return by mid-December, potentially in time for the Bengals’ playoff push.

Q3: Who is starting for the Bengals in Burrow’s absence?

Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco is starting while Burrow recovers. Jake Browning is serving as the backup quarterback.

Q4: How has Joe Flacco performed as Burrow’s replacement?

Flacco threw for 219 yards and two touchdowns in a 27-18 loss to Green Bay last week. He’s expected to continue leading the offense until Burrow returns.

Q5: Could Joe Burrow still play this season?

Yes. If his recovery continues as expected, Burrow could return in mid-December and lead the Bengals during the final stretch of the regular season.