Quarterback Joe Burrow will be back on the field for the first time since mid-September this week against AFC North rival Baltimore. The team confirmed as much today ahead of the Thanksgiving triple-header capped off by Ravens-Bengals.
Burrow last played in Week 2 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury in the second quarter and missed the subsequent nine games as the Bengals fell to 3-8 after a 2-0 start.
Burrow’s surgery had a timetable that predicted a return in mid-December so this is a faster turnaround than many expected. Cincinnati needs him – plus some luck with the rest of the schedule – to have a shot at making the playoffs in a competitive AFC wild-card race.
Thanksgiving marks the first of two games between the Bengals and Ravens over the next three weeks. Cincinnati will take on the Buffalo Bills on the road next week, giving Burrow two marquee matchups immediately upon his return to the field.
Who is Joe Burrow’s backup?
Joe Flacco will be Burrow’s backup as he makes his return to the field. The Bengals acquired Flacco from the Cleveland Browns earlier this season after multiple losses with Jake Browning at quarterback for Burrow.
Cincinnati’s operated with three quarterbacks on its active roster with Burrow out: Flacco, Browning and Sean Clifford. Clifford will likely be moved off the active roster with Burrow back in action.
Cincinnati Bengals schedule
AFC North standings
Baltimore Ravens: 6-5 (2-0 AFC North)
Pittsburgh Steelers: 6-5 (2-1)
Cincinnati Bengals: 3-8 (2-1)
Cleveland Browns: 3-8 (0-4)