NFL Network reports that Bengals QB Joe Burrow is believed to have suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury in the Week 2 win over the Bengals. If confirmed, Burrow will need surgery and miss "at least 3 months." ESPN's Adam Schefter adds that images of Burrow's toe are being sent to foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson before a final decision is made.
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Surgery would essentially knock Burrow out for the rest of the season -- a huge blow to this Bengals offense.
QB Jake Browning had an up-and-down outing in the win over Jacksonville, finishing 21 of 32 (65.6%) for 241 yards (7.5 YPA), two TDs, and three INTs. He made seven starts in place of Burrow at the end of the 2023 season, registering a 71.5% completion rate, 8.2 yards per attempt, 11 TDs, and 7 INTs.
Browning is good enough to keep this offense afloat but would obviously be a significant downgrade for all the skill-position players.
WR Ja'Marr Chase might be least affected considering all the schemed touches he gets. He'd remain a must-start, if more of a mid-range or low-end WR1. Tee Higgins would likely fall to WR2/3 status.
The Bengals would likely lean more toward the run sans Burrow. But fewer TD chances and potentially worse efficiency would make it a downgrade for RB Chase Brown overall.
We'll keep you updated on Burrow's status.
