In a major update for the Cincinnati Bengals and their playoff hopes, star quarterback Joe Burrow had some huge news to announce. The star quarterback revealed that he expects to be back on the field much earlier than previously anticipated after his turf-toe surgery.
Burrow, who underwent surgery following a left-foot turf-toe injury in Week 2, had initially been projected to miss at least three months. The Guardian+1 But now, sources say the Bengals have officially opened his 21-day practice window — a key step that could make his return a real possibility before the end of the regular season. NFLTradeRumors.co+1
What’s Behind the Rush Behind Joe Burrow’s Return?
Aug 7, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) during warmups against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Aug 7, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) during warmups against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
According to analysts such as Jay Glazer, Burrow himself believes that he’ll be ready sooner than even the team’s internal timeline suggested. The move to begin the practice-window clock indicates the organization is confident in his progress — even if a full game return isn’t yet locked in.
Coach Zac Taylor emphasized that while progress is promising, the team will still take a cautious approach. He said the next couple of weeks will be pivotal in determining when or if Burrow can be activated off injured reserve.
What This Means for the Bengals
With the Bengals currently battling through a rough 3-6 start, the news of Burrow’s possible return injects hope into a season that has drifted off course. His presence would instantly elevate Cincinnati’s offense — long one of the league’s most explosive under his leadership.
But the team remains realistic. Per NFL rules, once the 21-day practice window opens, the club must activate Burrow to the 53-man roster within that span — or he reverts to injured reserve for the remainder of the year.
Final Takeaway
Joe Burrow’s announcement is a beacon of optimism for Bengals fans and the organization alike. While obstacles remain, the early return timeline signals that both quarterback and team believe the climb back to relevancy is still on. The coming weeks will reveal whether that belief turns into a comeback performance.
What the Schedule Looks Like
Cincinnati’s schedule remaining this season is loaded with challenges: prime-time showdowns, key division matchups and late-season road games in tough venues. Some of the most critical remaining games:
That tough stretch means the Bengals must be sharp every week — there’s little room for error given the state of their roster and their competition.
For All Football Content:
Follow me on X (formerly Twitter) at @mcquadewarnold . Also, do not forget to follow us at On Twitter for even more great football content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in the world of Football – especially with all the trade rumors swirling around and free agency new s – college football, and more,click here!