Joe Burrow’s Thursday Night Status Remains Undetermined
The Cincinnati Bengals are currently assessing the status of quarterback Joe Burrow ahead of their upcoming game against the Baltimore Ravens. Initially, there were strong indications that Burrow would return for the Week 12 matchup against the New England Patriots. However, circumstances changed as the week progressed. Following two days of full participation in practice, the Bengals decided to have Joe Flacco take the starter reps on Friday, indicating a shift in their plans.
Joe Burrow’s Status Remains Undetermined
Burrow was ultimately not activated from injured reserve, leading to speculation about his timeline for return. Sources suggest that the team might be considering holding him out until Thanksgiving night. This cautious approach is largely due to the proximity of two games within four days.
Week 13 Outlook
- Status for the Thursday night game against the Baltimore Ravens remains unclear.
- Burrow’s participation depends on his body’s response to recent and upcoming practices.
- A source indicated that “nothing is set in stone” regarding his return.
Burrow has expressed a strong desire to play, yet the team faces a significant dilemma. The Bengals currently hold a record of 3-8, which severely limits their chances of making the postseason. This raises the question of whether risking further injury to his recently surgically repaired toe is worth the potential reward of playing in the season’s remaining games.
Prioritizing Player Health
The Bengals have a vested interest in Burrow, with plans extending beyond the current season. Protecting their investment in him for future seasons, particularly in 2026, is crucial. The organization must weigh the likelihood of Burrow not being at full capacity during the offseason against the benefits of having him available for the final six games.
As the team continues to evaluate Burrow’s condition, fans and analysts alike will await further updates on his status leading up to the game against the Ravens.
