When Joe Burrow, the starting quarterback of the Cincinnati Bengals underwent surgery on September 19, 2025, the league got its first look at a Grade 3 turf toe setback in years. The procedure was performed at the Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center in Birmingham, Alabama, and head coach Zac Taylor confirmed the operation went smoothly, though he stopped short of giving a concrete return date.
Background on Burrow's Injury
The Bengals' offensive juggernaut had been riding a strong start when Burrow felt a sharp pop in his left foot during a routine drill on September 13. Medical staff diagnosed a Grade 3 turf toe – the most severe classification, meaning the ligament at the base of the big toe was torn and the joint destabilized. While minor cases can be treated with rest and taping, experts say a Grade 3 injury almost always requires surgery to avoid chronic instability that could sap a quarterback's ability to plant and push off.
Details of the Surgery and Recovery Timeline
According to sources close to the team, the surgery lasted just under two hours and involved repairing the torn plantar plate and securing the joint with a small screw. Ja'Marr Chase, the Bengals' All‑Pro wide receiver, told reporters that Burrow was in good spirits, joking that his "normal self is boring, plain, dry‑answered" but that he was still "the same guy" despite the setback.
Recovery for a Grade 3 turf toe typically spans 10 to 12 weeks, and insiders estimate Burrow will miss roughly three months – potentially keeping him out until late December. During rehab, the quarterback has been seen zipping around the facility on a scooter, a sight that has both amused and reassured teammates.
Who Will Step In? Starting QB Jake Browning
With Burrow sidelined, Jake Browning will take the helm beginning this Sunday’s clash against the Minnesota Vikings. Browning first saw significant action in 2023 when Burrow suffered a season‑ending wrist injury; he started seven games and posted a 4‑3 record. This week he faces a defense bolstered by All‑Pro wideout Justin Jefferson, making his debut as a starter a true test of his poise.
Coach Taylor said Sunday’s game will be a "real‑world audition" for Browning, emphasizing that the team will rely on a balanced attack featuring a strong running game and short‑to‑intermediate passes to ease him into the rhythm.
Other Injury Concerns for Cincinnati
The Bengals aren’t just coping with the quarterback vacancy. Cornerback Cam Taylor‑Britt is listed as doubtful after a hamstring strain in Wednesday’s practice. He missed Thursday’s session and limited his Friday drills to light stretching. Meanwhile, fellow corner DJ Turner II appears healthy and may start on the outside if Taylor‑Britt cannot play.
These secondary uncertainties could compound the challenge of containing the Vikings’ aerial assault, especially given Jefferson’s career‑high 124 yards per game this season.
Implications for the Bengals' Early‑Season Push
At 2‑0, Cincinnati is chasing its first 3‑0 start since the 2015 campaign, a milestone that would cement its status as an early favorite in the AFC North. Losing Burrow for a quarter of the season puts added pressure on the offensive line, which must protect a less‑experienced passer, and on the defense to keep games low‑scoring.
Statistically, teams that lose their starting quarterback for three months in the first half of the season see a 0.6 drop in win probability, according to a 2022 NFL analytics study. If Burrow returns late December, he could still partake in the playoff push, but his absence may affect seeding and home‑field advantage.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Outlook
Assuming Burrow’s rehab proceeds without setbacks, he should be back for the final three regular‑season games, giving the Bengals a chance to finish strong. However, the health of the secondary and the effectiveness of Browning’s interim tenure will likely dictate whether Cincinnati can secure a division title or settle for a wild‑card spot.
In the long term, the surgery may actually extend Burrow’s career. Orthopedic specialists note that properly treated turf toe can restore full function and reduce the risk of chronic pain that hinders athletes into their 30s.
Key Facts
- Procedure: Grade 3 turf toe repair, performed at Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center.
- Recovery: Expected 10‑12 weeks, likely keeping Burrow out until late December.
- Starter: Jake Browning named starter for the Vikings game (Sunday).
- Secondary concerns: Cam Taylor‑Britt doubtful, DJ Turner II healthy.
- Team goal: First 3‑0 start since 2015; playoff positioning at stake.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will Joe Burrow's absence affect the Bengals' offense?
Without Burrow, Cincinnati will lean heavily on its running backs and short passing routes to keep the defense honest. Quarterback Jake Browning, who started seven games in 2023, will manage the tempo, but the lack of Burrow’s deep‑ball precision could limit big‑play opportunities, especially against a Vikings secondary boasting Justin Jefferson.
When is Burrow expected to return to game action?
Medical estimates point to a 10‑12‑week recovery, meaning Burrow could be back for the last three regular‑season games in late December, provided his rehabilitation progresses without complications.
Who will start at quarterback this Sunday against Minnesota?
Jake Browning has been named the starter. He will attempt to guide an offense missing its star quarterback, focusing on a balanced attack to mitigate the Vikings' pass rush.
What is the severity of a Grade 3 turf toe?
Grade 3 turf toe indicates a complete tear of the ligament and joint instability, usually requiring surgical fixation. Recovery can take up to three months, and without proper treatment, athletes risk chronic pain and reduced mobility.
Could the injuries to Cam Taylor‑Britt and other defensive backs jeopardize the game against the Vikings?
Taylor‑Britt’s hamstring strain leaves him doubtful, potentially thinning the Bengals’ coverage against a Vikings receiving corps led by Justin Jefferson. If he misses the game, rookie DB DJ Turner II will likely step in, but the defense could be vulnerable to deep passes.