Sunday’s game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the New England Patriots carries extra weight with playoff hopes hanging in the balance. The Bengals enter the game 3-7, desperate for momentum, while the Patriots look to exploit any weakness and climb the standings.
Cincinnati announced it will not activate quarterback Joe Burrow for Week 12, leaving veteran Joe Flacco to start once again. Ian Rapoport reported, “Bengals QB Joe Burrow… won’t be moved to the active roster just yet. He’ll remain on IR.” The decision means Flacco gets another opening drive against New England.
Advertisement
#Bengals QB Joe Burrow, attempting to come back just over two months after surgery to repair Grade 3 turf toe, won’t be moved to the active roster just yet, source said. He’ll remain on IR.
Joe Flacco starts, once again. But Burrow’s time is coming. pic.twitter.com/IGOjHTZS6F
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 22, 2025
Burrow’s absence traces back to a serious turf toe injury early in the season. The two-time Comeback Player of the Year underwent surgery on Sept. 19 to repair a Grade 3 turf toe and was placed on injured reserve. Cincinnati designated him for return on Nov. 10 and he began practicing, but the team opted to keep him on IR for now.
MORE: NFL power rankings: NFC West Week 12
What about Burrow’s injury and when he will be back
Burrow is still on injured reserve and won’t be activated for Sunday’s game. While he ramped up practice and even took snaps with the starting offense, the Bengals cited the challenge of playing two games in five days and elected to hold him out. The team and trainers appear to be aiming for a short-term timeline, many expect a targeted comeback around the Thanksgiving game in Baltimore, but no official activation has been announced.
Advertisement
Joe Flacco, acquired in October from the Browns, has steadied Cincinnati’s offense. He’s thrown 1,453 yards, 12 touchdowns and three interceptions this season for the Bengals, started immediately after the trade and has made six consecutive starts. Flacco will start Sunday despite a lingering shoulder issue and brings veteran poise to the team.
The Bengals will rely on Flacco’s experience and hope Burrow’s recovery stays on track for the weeks ahead. Fans and analysts will closely watch practice reports as Cincinnati balances short-term needs with Burrow’s long-term health.
Advertisement
—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead—
NFL:12 NFL teams with the best chance to win the Super Bowl after Week 11
CFB:Predicting the 12 College Football Playoff teams after Week 12
FANTASY FOOTBALL:Fantasy football studs and duds for NFL Week 12
NBA:LeBron James shares major personal news about Bronny James
MLB:Former Mets, Padres Cy Young Award winner dies at 75
VIRAL:Wendell Carter Jr. sparks new wave of Angel Reese speculation with viral response