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The Cincinnati Bengals could be getting their starting quarterback back on the field sooner than anticipated. They’ve opened Joe Burrow‘s 21-day practice window.
He suffered a toe injury in the Week 2 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. While it seemed that he could’ve been out for the season, that might not be the case.
With that in mind, analyst Dan Orlovsky took to social media to warn the Bengals about making a big QB decision.
“If they go 2-0 next 2 weeks, it’s a convo. If not, don’t play,” Orlovsky wrote on X.
If they go 2-0 next 2 weeks—it’s a convo. If not—don’t play. https://t.co/8FzI6emRRl
— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) November 11, 2025
The Bengals have two tough games ahead of them against the Pittsburgh Steelers (on the road) and the New England Patriots (at home).
They have shown enough with Joe Flacco at quarterback to at least split those two games. But if not, it would make little sense for them to risk further injury to Burrow.
According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, Burrow is targeting a return on Thanksgiving against the Baltimore Ravens. However, Week 14 at the Buffalo Bills would be more realistic.
The Bengals’ defense has let two consecutive games slip through their fingers on the final drive. So, they could’ve been tied for the AFC North lead by now.
Those losses might come back to haunt them if they fail to get the job done in the next couple of weeks before Burrow could return. But with the division up for grabs, there should still be a tiny chance that the Bengals will have their star quarterback back to make a run.
NEXT: Joe Burrow Hints At Potential Return Timeline