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Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has delivered encouraging news about his recovery from a severe turf toe injury sustained in Week 2. The injury occurred during the team’s 31-27 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars in September and required surgical intervention.
Initial projections indicated Burrow would miss time until mid-to-late December, but recent developments suggest an accelerated timeline. FOX NFL insider Jay Glazer reported that Burrow returned to practice Monday in a limited capacity.
Moreover, the quarterback expressed optimism about rejoining the lineup sooner than the medical staff originally anticipated when the injury first occurred.
“Joe Burrow told [Jay Glazer] he expects to be back by Thanksgiving, which is Week 13 when they play on Thanksgiving night vs. the Ravens. He’s ahead of his timeline,” Ari Meirov posted on X.
Joe Burrow told @JayGlazer he expects to be back by Thanksgiving, which is Week 13 when they play on Thanksgiving night vs. the #Ravens.
He's ahead of his timeline. https://t.co/5LKSbYHvHV pic.twitter.com/fVcq1KKWGE
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 10, 2025
Burrow’s return to practice opens a 21-day evaluation window. During this period, he can participate in team activities without occupying a roster spot on the 53-man active roster. Cincinnati’s medical staff and coaching personnel will monitor his progress before making a final determination on activation.
The Bengals currently sit at 3-6 with games against the Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots ahead. Winning both contests would position them at 5-6 and keep them within striking distance of the AFC North race by the time Burrow potentially returns.
His presence addresses the most significant gap on the roster. Cincinnati has attempted to adjust through roster moves and strategic changes during his absence.
Those efforts have produced mixed results as the team continues searching for consistency on offense. Burrow’s leadership extends beyond statistical production and affects how the entire roster approaches each game. His return would restore stability to a franchise built around his abilities and provide the catalyst needed for a potential second-half surge.
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