CINCINNATI – Joe Burrow showcased impressive form during practice this week, raising hopes for his return in the upcoming game against the New England Patriots. The star quarterback of the Cincinnati Bengals participated fully in team drills on Thursday, handling 100% of the team’s snaps, according to the latest injury report. His performance during the media-accessible portion of practice included collaborating closely with starting center Ted Karras on ball exchanges.
Burrow was the first quarterback to throw during position drills, even as veteran Joe Flacco resumed practice after sitting out Wednesday due to a shoulder injury. While Burrow remains on injured reserve, speculation continues regarding his potential return to the active roster for Sunday’s matchup.
Teammates Express Confidence in Burrow
Wide receiver Tee Higgins highlighted Burrow’s readiness, noting a confident exchange between them. “I don’t know if that was a good or bad, but I assumed good,” Higgins said, referring to Burrow’s side-eyed glance and smirk. He further emphasized Burrow’s exceptional performance, stating, “Joe’s been looking outstanding, man. He’s slinging it deep, short routes. Everything’s been pretty good.”
Burrow has been sidelined since Week 2 due to a turf toe injury in his left foot. Initially, he aimed for a return around Thanksgiving, but recent developments suggest he may be back sooner than expected. Following a full practice on Wednesday, Burrow took a significant step forward as the team opened his 21-day window for returning on November 10.
In contrast, Flacco has been managing a sprained AC joint in his throwing shoulder, missing practice on the past three Wednesdays. Thursday, typically the team’s most intensive practice day, saw Burrow taking priority in quarterback drills, indicating a shift in his status.
Bengals Coach Remains Cautious
Despite Burrow’s impressive practice sessions, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor has yet to confirm his return. In an interview earlier in the day with radio station WLW, Taylor stated, “I’m not there yet. One day at practice isn’t going to lead to that decision. We’ll use the time we have at our disposal and come with the best decision we can.”
Taylor is expected to address reporters again following Friday’s final practice of the week. The Bengals, currently holding a record of 3-7, are eager to break a three-game losing streak and end an eight-game run of defeats against the Patriots, who stand at 9-2.
If Burrow does take the field on Sunday, it will mark the second consecutive season he has returned from injury to face New England at home. Last season, Cincinnati lost to the Patriots in the 2024 season opener, which was Burrow’s first game back after recovering from a season-ending wrist injury in 2023.
As the game approaches, Burrow’s teammates continue to express their support for him to take the necessary time to ensure he is fully healthy. Higgins remarked, “He needs to take as much time as he needs, but I mean, he looks good. If he’s ready, then I’m ready. Take as much time as you need to get back to 100 percent, which I think he is [at] now.”
