Fred Warner lauds Joe Burrow’s toughness and resilience
CINCINNATI — NFL All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner has expressed immense admiration for Joe Burrow’s ability to withstand the rigors of professional football. During a recent appearance on the Ryen Russillo Show, Warner highlighted Burrow as one of the league’s most resilient quarterbacks, showcasing a unique toughness that sets him apart.
A Tough Competitor
When asked about the quarterbacks who can take a hard hit and still bounce back, Burrow was the first name that came to Warner’s mind. Reflecting on his experiences facing the Bengals’ quarterback, Warner recounted a particularly striking moment. “I played him a couple of times. It was out in the open field, and I just ran right through him, and he delivered the ball anyway,” Warner shared.
This incident occurred during a crucial third down, where Burrow not only completed the pass but also popped back up immediately after the hit, casually acknowledging Warner with, “Hey, man, good hit.” Warner’s astonishment was palpable. “What the heck? Like, I just ran through you. I didn’t even let up either,” he recalled, underscoring the quarterback’s remarkable ability to absorb punishment while maintaining his composure.
The Dog in Him
Warner’s praise for Burrow extended beyond just a single play. He emphasized the quarterback’s competitive spirit and innate drive. “He’s just a dog,” Warner stated, acknowledging that Burrow’s determination and mindset are different from many players in the league. “You can see why guys rally around him, and it’s something that makes him special. Is that he got that dog in him. Some guys got it, some guys don’t.”
Burrow’s performances against Warner’s San Francisco 49ers in 2021 and 2023 further illustrate this point. Over those two games, he completed 53 of 66 passes for 631 yards and five touchdowns without a single interception. Both outings saw Burrow achieve passer ratings exceeding 125, a testament to his effectiveness against Warner’s defense.
Looking Ahead
While Cincinnati is not scheduled to face the 49ers and Warner again until the 2027 season, the respect between the two remains evident. Warner, who has been named a first-team All-Pro for three consecutive seasons, is facing an unfortunate end to that streak due to injury this year.
For fans eager to learn more about the Bengals and their star quarterback, plenty of coverage is available, including in-depth interviews, analysis, and podcasts dedicated to the team. As they navigate the season, Burrow’s resilience and ability to inspire those around him will undoubtedly remain a focal point of discussion among fans and analysts alike.

