Here’s a bold statement: even though the Cincinnati Bengals are officially out of the playoff race, star quarterback Joe Burrow isn’t sitting on the sidelines. But here’s where it gets controversial—is this the right move for a team with nothing left to gain this season? ESPN’s Ben Baby breaks down the decision, revealing that Burrow will start the final three games despite the team’s elimination. This comes just days after a crushing 24-0 shutout loss to the Baltimore Ravens, a game that sealed their fate.
Coach Zac Taylor made it clear: Burrow isn’t being benched. ‘We want to win,’ Taylor stated simply, brushing off any speculation about resting their franchise quarterback. Burrow, a two-time Pro Bowler, has battled back from a turf toe injury that sidelined him for nine games this season—just the latest in a string of injuries that have marked his six-year career. From a torn ACL in 2020 to a ruptured wrist ligament in 2023, Burrow’s resilience is undeniable. But his return hasn’t been without bumps. After a near-perfect performance against the Buffalo Bills, he harshly criticized himself following the Ravens game, calling it ‘one of the worst games I’ve played.’
And this is the part most people miss—Burrow’s Total QBR of 21.4 in Week 15 was the third-lowest among starters, trailing only Shedeur Sanders of the Cleveland Browns and Kenny Pickett of the Las Vegas Raiders. Yet, Taylor praised Burrow’s accountability, both publicly and behind closed doors. ‘That’s who he is,’ Taylor said, highlighting Burrow’s leadership.
But let’s pause for a moment: Is keeping Burrow in the lineup a risky move? With a 4-10 record, the Bengals have little to gain statistically, but Burrow insists he wants to play. Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher summed it up: ‘Just confidence, earned confidence and an air of control.’ But is that enough to justify the risk of further injury? Or is this a chance for Burrow to rebuild momentum and prove he’s still the team’s unshakable leader?
As the Bengals prepare to face the Miami Dolphins and close out the season, the question remains: Are they prioritizing Burrow’s development over his health? What do you think? Is this a smart move, or should the Bengals be more cautious with their star quarterback? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
