Bengals Bench Burrow Again—But Is a Thanksgiving Return in Sight?
Cincinnati Bengals fans hoping for a Joe Burrow comeback this weekend will have to wait a little longer. In a move that’s already sparking debate, the Bengals have decided not to activate their star quarterback for Sunday’s matchup against the New England Patriots, opting instead to start veteran Joe Flacco.
Burrow, sidelined since Week 2 with a toe injury, has been ramping up his practice activity, participating in seven straight sessions since November 10, including two full practices this week. Head coach Zac Taylor emphasized caution, stating,
“We are just going to keep taking our time on this one. No decision has been made. I feel comfortable waiting as long as we can to make this decision.”
Why the Delay? Inside the Bengals’ Calculated Risk
The Bengals’ decision comes at a critical juncture. With the team sitting at 3-7 and their playoff hopes fading, every game counts. Burrow himself has reportedly targeted the high-stakes Thanksgiving Day game against the division-rival Baltimore Ravens for his return. Medical experts suggest that a few extra days of rest are unlikely to make a significant difference at this stage of his recovery, but the Bengals are clearly prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains.
NFL insiders say Burrow is eager to get back on the field, regardless of the team’s record.
“Burrow produces at an elite level when healthy but has also missed significant portions of three different seasons since 2020,” notes ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
“Returning to play—even if the playoffs are out of reach—could help build confidence and momentum for both the player and team.”
What’s at Stake for Cincinnati?
The Bengals’ cautious approach is understandable given Burrow’s injury history and the franchise’s long-term investment in their franchise quarterback. However, with owner Mike Brown turning 90 this August and the organization facing a potential third straight season without a playoff berth, the pressure is mounting for results.
If Burrow isn’t activated for the Thanksgiving game, the Bengals still have a few days left in his 21-day practice window to bring him back for Week 14 against the Buffalo Bills. But with the AFC North still technically within reach, the team’s decision-making in the coming days could define the trajectory of their season—and perhaps their future.
What to Watch Next
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Thanksgiving Day Showdown: All eyes are on Thursday’s game against the Ravens. If Burrow is cleared, expect a dramatic return in a must-win divisional clash.
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Joe Flacco’s Performance: The veteran’s ability to steady the ship could buy Burrow more recovery time—or force the Bengals’ hand if the offense sputters.
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Franchise Implications: With offseason changes looming, how the Bengals handle Burrow’s return could influence everything from coaching decisions to roster moves.
For now, Bengals fans will have to wait—and hope—that Burrow’s next snap comes sooner rather than later.
Sources
1. Bengals Make Questionable Decision With Joe Burrow Ahead of Matchup vs Patriots
2. NFL Week 12 latest buzz, questions, news and fantasy tips
3. Bengals Go With Joe Flacco Vs. Patriots
4. Bengals News: Will Joe Burrow help get Trey Hendrickson ...
5. NFL Week 12 Injury Report: Joe Burrow & Aaron Rodgers ...
6. The Official Site of the Cincinnati Bengals
7. Latest NFL Football News
8. New World Screwworm
9. LIES, DAMN LIES, AND VIRAL CONTENT
