Bengals Risk Joe Burrow’s Future for Meaningless Games
CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bengals are set to have their star quarterback, Joe Burrow, take the field this Sunday against the Miami Dolphins. He is also expected to play in the following week’s matchup against the Arizona Cardinals and in the season finale against the Cleveland Browns. Yet, the question looms: should he really be playing at all?
The backdrop to this decision is the apparent job security of head coach Zac Taylor, who is signed through the 2027 season. Alongside him, Bengals Director of Player Personnel and acting general manager Duke Tobin is not facing any threats to his position. With both Taylor and Tobin firmly in place, the rationale for putting Burrow at risk in what are ultimately meaningless games becomes increasingly questionable.
The Competitive Spirit vs. Franchise Health
While Burrow’s competitive nature and desire to play cannot be dismissed, they do not justify exposing him to unnecessary risks. If the outcomes of these remaining games hold little significance for the future of the franchise, why not prioritize the health of your franchise quarterback?
The focus should shift to evaluating the young talent on the roster. Players such as Shemar Stewart, Demetrius Knight Jr., and Barrett Carter could benefit from increased playing time, giving the coaching staff a clearer picture of their potential. Myles Murphy, who has recently shown promise with a career-high 4.5 sacks this season, deserves a chance to finish strong. Additionally, giving running back Tahj Brooks some touches could be crucial for assessing depth on the roster.
The Future Over the Present
The Bengals must turn their attention toward the future. With the current trajectory, they are on track to select ninth in the 2026 NFL Draft. This is an opportunity to build a stronger team for the upcoming seasons. Burrow’s health is paramount, and risking it for the sake of a few inconsequential victories seems counterproductive.
When asked about the possibility of resting Burrow, Taylor’s response was unequivocal: “No,” he stated. “Because we want to win.” However, the past seasons tell a different story. Cincinnati finished the previous year strong, winning five consecutive games, and continued with a 4-2 record in their last six games in 2023. Yet, these finishes did not translate into success for the subsequent season.
Making Choices for the Long Haul
At this juncture, it’s vital for the Bengals to reconsider their strategy. Winning without Burrow may bring some temporary satisfaction, but it should not come at the expense of the long-term health of their star quarterback. The decision to play Burrow in these final three games could have lasting repercussions. The Bengals must weigh immediate desires against the overarching goal of building a sustainable, competitive team for the future.
