Bengals’ Joe Burrow Undergoes Surgery, Out Indefinitely

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow underwent successful surgery on September 29, 2023, to address a turf toe injury on his left foot. Following the procedure, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor confirmed that while the surgery went well, there is no established timeline for Burrow’s return to the field.

Taylor stated, “There’s no reason to give a timeline. We don’t have a timeline. Now he’s just in recovery and we’ll go from there.” Sources such as ESPN’s Adam Schefter suggest that Burrow could be sidelined for approximately three months. He received the surgery at the Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center in Birmingham, Alabama.

With Burrow unavailable, Jake Browning will step in as the starting quarterback for the Bengals as they prepare to face the Minnesota Vikings on October 1, 2023. Browning has prior experience, having started seven games during the 2023 season when Burrow was previously sidelined due to a wrist injury.

In addition to Burrow’s situation, the Bengals are facing other injury concerns. Cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt is doubtful for the upcoming game due to a hamstring injury sustained during practice. Taylor-Britt did not participate in Thursday’s practice sessions and only took part in stretching on Friday morning without engaging in any drills. Coach Taylor has not ruled him out yet, with less than 48 hours remaining until kickoff.

Meanwhile, cornerback DJ Turner II, who also dealt with a hamstring issue earlier in the week, is expected to be available. He is likely to start if Taylor-Britt cannot play. The Bengals are aiming for their first 3-0 start to the season since 2015, adding to the urgency of their upcoming match against the Vikings, who currently hold a record of 1-1.

As Cincinnati navigates this challenging period, the focus remains on the recovery of Burrow and the team’s ability to perform in his absence.