Cincinnati Bengals Quarterback Joe Burrow Expected to Miss Several Weeks Due to Calf Strain
Cincinnati Bengals coach Zac Taylor announced on Friday that starting quarterback Joe Burrow is expected to be sidelined for “several weeks” due to a calf strain. The injury occurred during Thursday’s practice when Burrow was rolling to his right during drills and suddenly pulled up short, resulting in a noncontact injury. He was later carted off the field.
Taylor expressed optimism about the progress Burrow made during the team’s July practices, stating, “Joe got more days this July than he ever has in the NFL. And so I feel really good about the progress we made during those July practices we had with Joe, and when he’s able to get back, we’ll be able to get in the work we need.”
The Bengals’ season opener is scheduled for September 10 against the Cleveland Browns. If Burrow is unable to play, the team currently has Trevor Siemian and Jake Browning as options on their quarterback depth chart.
This injury marks the third consecutive training camp in which Burrow has dealt with an injury. In 2021, he was recovering from a torn ACL and MCL in his left knee that prematurely ended his rookie season in 2020. Additionally, he had to undergo surgery for a ruptured appendix just days before the start of training camp last year.
Despite these setbacks, Burrow had an impressive season in 2021 and is currently engaged in contract negotiations with the Bengals. If a deal is reached, he could potentially become the highest-paid player in the NFL.
Just one day before his injury, Burrow expressed his excitement about being healthy and having a normal training camp for the first time in his career. He stated, “Knock on wood — I feel great. This time last year I was sitting in a hospital bed. It’s good to be out there with the guys. Excited about where we’re at.”
The Bengals will have to rely on their backup quarterbacks while Burrow recovers. Trevor Siemian and Jake Browning will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and provide support for the team during Burrow’s absence.
In conclusion, the Cincinnati Bengals will face a significant challenge as they navigate through several weeks without their star quarterback, Joe Burrow. The team and coaching staff remain hopeful for his speedy recovery and are confident in the progress made during their July practices. As the Bengals prepare for their season opener against the Cleveland Browns, they will rely on backup quarterbacks Trevor Siemian and Jake Browning to fill the void left by Burrow’s absence. Despite the setback, Burrow’s impressive performance in 2021 and ongoing contract negotiations highlight his importance to the team and his potential to become one of the highest-paid players in the NFL.