Joe Burrow Faces Surgery, Out for Bengals After Turf Toe Injury

The Cincinnati Bengals are set to navigate a challenging period without their star quarterback, Joe Burrow, who suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury during a crucial game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 17, 2023. Burrow was assisted off the field in the second quarter and did not return to the game. Backup quarterback Jake Browning stepped in, leading the team to a dramatic 31-27 victory.

The severity of Burrow’s injury has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. Following the game, it was confirmed that Burrow would require surgery, a procedure that is exceptionally rare for a quarterback in the National Football League. Although there is no definitive timeline for his recovery, the most optimistic estimates suggest he could return in approximately three months, potentially resuming play in December.

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor addressed the media the day after Burrow’s injury, acknowledging the necessity of surgery but refraining from providing a specific return date. When questioned about Burrow’s prospects for this season, Taylor stated, “I don’t want to answer anything I can’t answer right now,” underscoring the uncertainty surrounding the quarterback’s recovery.

This injury marks Burrow’s third major setback in his brief NFL career. In 2020, during his rookie season, he suffered a catastrophic knee injury that resulted in a torn ACL, MCL, PCL, and meniscus. Last season, he dealt with a torn wrist ligament, another unusual injury for a player in his position. Now, with another significant injury, Burrow finds himself sidelined once again, leaving fans anxious about the team’s future.

Understanding Turf Toe

Turf toe, despite its seemingly innocuous name, is a painful injury that can significantly impact a player’s performance. It occurs when the ligaments surrounding the big toe joint are damaged, typically when the toe is forcefully bent upwards. This leads to sharp pain at the base of the toe, along with stiffness and limited movement. Every push-off becomes exceptionally painful, affecting a player’s ability to run and pivot effectively.

Turf toe injuries are classified into three grades based on severity. Grade 1 involves minor stretching or microscopic tearing of the ligaments, causing mild pain and minimal loss of motion. Grade 2 injuries are more serious, with partial ligament tears resulting in moderate pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion. A Grade 3 turf toe is the most severe, involving a complete tear of the ligaments, which is exactly what Burrow is facing.

Bengals supporters had hoped for a less severe diagnosis, but Burrow’s situation is a stark reminder of the physical toll of professional football. As he embarks on the road to recovery, Cincinnati must now rely on Browning to lead the team. With Burrow sidelined, the Bengals face a critical stretch in their season, testing their resilience and depth on the roster.