Cincinnati, OH – Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow will be sidelined for at least three months following surgery on a toe injury sustained during Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, according to ESPN reporter Adam Schefter. The injury occurred in the second quarter when Burrow was sacked by Arik Armstead.
Following the sack, Burrow attempted to continue but fell to the field, requiring assistance back to the Bengals’ locker room. He was subsequently seen wearing a walking boot and utilizing crutches.
Despite Burrow’s absence, backup quarterback Jake Browning led the Bengals to a 31-27 victory over the Jaguars. Browning completed 21 of 32 passes for 241 yards and two touchdowns, punctuated by a crucial rushing touchdown with 18 seconds remaining.
“Jake’s been in there and done it with us before,” stated Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins. “It was a no-brainer. We had faith in him to step in with no hesitation and no setbacks.”
Browning, a veteran of two seasons as the Bengals’ backup following Burrow’s season-ending wrist injury in 2023, demonstrated his ability to lead the team. Bengals center Ted Karras commented, “When he comes in, he wins ball games. No fear, no panic, got it done. That’s my guy.”
The victory, while significant, was tempered by palpable frustration within the Bengals’ locker room. Wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase acknowledged, “Emotions are very, very high right now.”
Head Coach Zac Taylor emphasized the team’s resilience, stating, “It feels like that’s what this year is turning into already.”
The Bengals are scheduled to return to action on Sunday, September 21st, when they face the Minnesota Vikings in Minneapolis. Burrow’s injury represents a significant setback for the team’s championship aspirations.