Joe Burrow’s Repeated Injuries Raise Questions About the Cincinnati Bengals’ Ability to Protect Their Star Player

Joe Burrow, the Cincinnati Bengals’ star quarterback, has once again found himself sidelined due to injury, this time after being sacked and sustaining a foot injury that could require surgery. The incident, which occurred midway through the second quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars, is yet another setback for the six-year NFL veteran, who has now missed significant time in half of his seasons.

Burrow’s latest injury not only jeopardizes the Bengals’ Super Bowl aspirations but also highlights concerns about the team’s ability to protect its most valuable asset. Despite his remarkable passing prowess—68.5% completion rate, 142 touchdowns, and just 46 interceptions—Burrow has been plagued by a series of injuries, including a torn ligament in his knee during his rookie season and a wrist injury in 2023. His latest ailment, known as “Turf Toe,” is expected to keep him out for several months.

The issue seems to stem from Burrow’s playing style, which involves frequent movement in the pocket, exposing him to more hits than other elite quarterbacks. Since the start of his career, Burrow has been sacked or hit as a passer 6.4 times per start—significantly higher than peers like Patrick Mahomes (5.4), Josh Allen (4.5), and Lamar Jackson (3.7). While some blame the Bengals’ offensive line, which has consistently ranked among the league’s worst, others point to Burrow’s tendencies and the team’s play-calling, which often involve a pass-heavy scheme that leaves him more vulnerable.

Coach Zac Taylor has acknowledged the challenge, stating that the team is always evaluating ways to protect its players and take accountability for putting Burrow in risky situations. “We’re always evaluating how we can protect our players and put them in the best position possible,” Taylor said. “If people want to blame me for putting him in a position, I’m fine taking that.”

With Burrow sidelined, the Bengals will now rely on backup quarterback Jake Browning, who came off the bench Sunday and led them to a win. Browning has experience stepping in for an injured Burrow, going 4-3 as a starter in 2023 while completing 70.4% of his passes. However, it remains to be seen whether he can carry the team through the remainder of the season.

Burrow’s contract, a five-year, $275 million extension signed in 2023, made him the NFL’s highest-paid player at the time, with $55 million per season. His talent is undeniable, but the recurring injuries raise questions about both his long-term durability and the Bengals’ ability to protect him.

As the season progresses, the Bengals will need to find a way to balance Burrow’s unique talents with the need to keep him healthy—something that remains a pressing concern for the franchise. The challenge is not just about protecting Burrow, but also about adapting their offensive strategy to reduce his exposure to dangerous hits while still maximizing his playmaking ability.

Analysts have also pointed out that Burrow’s injury-prone career may be a result of the modern NFL’s emphasis on quarterback mobility. While this style of play has led to greater success on the field, it also increases the risk of injury. Other quarterbacks, like Lamar Jackson and Kyler Murray, have faced similar challenges, though their injury patterns differ based on their playing styles.

The Bengals’ decision to draft Ja’Marr Chase over offensive tackle Penei Sewell in 2021 has also come under scrutiny, with some experts arguing that a stronger offensive line could have helped protect Burrow. However, the team has struggled to build a consistent line, and the issue remains a point of contention for fans and analysts alike.

As the season unfolds, the Bengals will need to find a way to both protect their star quarterback and maintain the high level of play that has made them a competitive force in the AFC. Whether they can do so without Burrow on the field remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the pressure is on the coaching staff and front office to find a solution to this ongoing dilemma.