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2 weeks ago
Burrow's Return: A Practice Puzzle with a Quarterback Twist
There were unexpected developments with Joe Burrow and Joe Flacco on Wednesday afternoon.
Burrow's Return: A Practice Puzzle with a Quarterback Twist
Joe Burrow's return to practice for the Bengals against the Patriots has taken an interesting turn, with recent developments adding layers of uncertainty. Initially, Bengals coach Zac Taylor downplayed the possibility of Burrow returning ahead of the Week 13 matchup, citing a turf toe injury that was expected to sideline him for three months. However, when Burrow was fully listed as a participant in Wednesday's practice, it raised eyebrows, especially given the NFL's stringent protocols for player readiness.
Taylor's statement that Burrow hasn't yet participated in 11-on-11 practices suggested a cautious approach, but the full injury report revealed a more nuanced situation. Burrow not only participated in those drills but also completed all his usual reps, indicating he was fully integrated into the team's training. This level of involvement means he's back at full practice intensity, potentially putting him in a prime position to return earlier than anticipated.
The situation is further complicated by Joe Flacco's injury status. While Flacco was expected to rest a shoulder injury, Burrow was listed as a limited participant, which implies he did practice but with reduced involvement. This has added another layer of intrigue, as the Bengals now face a quarterback who might be more aggressively preparing for the game against the Patriots, possibly aiming to capitalize on any early momentum Burrow could bring back. The team will need to provide a clearer update on Burrow's status soon to manage expectations and prepare strategically for the upcoming game.