Joe Burrow had a terrible 2025 NFL season, and the Cincinnati Bengals also underperformed by a lot. The franchise finished with a 6-11 record and missed the playoffs, and ended up third in AFC North division table. Many fans were angry and are expecting better performances next season.
However, Burrow has been enjoying himself, now that the offseason is ongoing. He has recently attracted much attention after reports of him breaking up.
Joe Burrow breaks up with model Olivia Ponton
Burrow has reportedly broken up with model Olivia Ponton, a relationship that has been chaotic from the start. The two were in a relationship since 2024, though they have never admitted dating each other. She was mentioned in a police report as his employee, after reporting a burglary at Burrow’s Ohio home in December 2024. Many described the relationship as being casual and that they were hooking up.
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) looks for hands to shake after the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 18 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026. The Browns kicked a last second field goal to win 20-18. via Imagn Images
They were publicly seen together in May 2025 at F1 Miami and a June NYC date night. The breakup has not been confirmed by either, though Ponton has hinted so. She recently called October 2025 a “pretty hard month” in an Instagram Q&A, crediting a friend for support. Many cryptic posts such as a matcha caption reading “Love of my life” and repeated trip photos with “I’m still not over this” hint at it.
It also concides with Burrow’s recent activity with other women. He was previously seen with actress Jessica Alba, and later with influencer Alix Earle, singer Tate McRae, and model Stassie Karanikolaou after a Vanity Fair Oscars party.
Many fans are now criticizing Burrow for being involved with Ponton, due to a six-year age gap between them. Burrow is 29-years-old while Ponton is only 23. Many also pointed out the fact that the model previously said she was a pansexual, and questions arise about her being his former employee.
Fans react as Joe Burrow breaks up with model Olivia Ponton
Many comments reflected the sentiment that Burrow was wrong in dating Ponton.
One user wrote, “Joe living that Brady lifestyle without the rings 😏”.
A second user said, “6-Year Age Gap & Ex-Employee?”
A third user replied, “Just seems like nfl players can’t get it together 😂”.
Another added, “Wow can’t believe Joe fired his employee like that”.
A fifth user commented, “Lol he broke up with his lesbian gf”.
A sixth user remarked, “Joe is lost in the sauce. I miss nerdy Joe who went back to live with his parents after college.”
Joe Burrow will have to get ready for the 2026 NFL season.