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The Cincinnati Bengals are currently 3-6, which makes them the third seed in the AFC North. They have been trying to keep their playoff hopes alive without Joe Burrow, who hasn’t played a game since September due to a toe injury.
Burrow might be returning to his team soon, and he still believes the Bengals have what it takes to reach the playoffs. He recently said as much, but Nick Wright isn’t buying it.
Speaking on First Things First, Wright rejected Burrow’s optimism and said that the Bengals are “cooked” and that Burrow won’t help them if he is able to play later this season.
“[Am I buying Joe Burrow’s optimism] of their chances? No, because as the Bengals are presently constituted, they won’t be any better with him. As they’re presently playing, they’ve scored 80 points in their last two losses. 80! Their problem is not quarterback play. I think the Bengals are cooked, and I don’t think their problem is quarterback play,” Wright said.
.@getnickwright isn’t buying Joe Burrow’s optimism:
“As the Bengals are presently constituted, they won’t be any better with him… Their problem is not quarterback play.” pic.twitter.com/rWQZQLzRpg
— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) November 11, 2025
Burrow recently returned to practice in a limited capacity, which means the 21-day window for his potential return has started. The Bengals superstar could possibly be back on the field around Thanksgiving, or he could sit out longer, perhaps for the rest of the season.
The front office and coaching staff will have to decide what they want to do. They don’t want to risk injuring Burrow again, especially if any chance of postseason success is out the window.
Of course, if they also believe they have a shot in the playoffs, Cincinnati would be eager to see Burrow suit up again. So, fans are wondering if the whole team really believes in their chances like Burrow or if they feel they have lost their shot for this year.
No one can fault Burrow for having faith in his team, even if some fans are losing belief. Like the committed player he is, he won’t let go of hope until the season is over and there is no chance of reaching the playoffs.
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