Zac Taylor Confirms Joe Burrow’s Left Toe Surgery: What This Means for the Bengals and His 3-Month Recovery Timeline

CINCINNATI (AP) — Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is set to undergo surgery for his injured left toe, confirmed coach Zac Taylor on Monday. The precise timeline for the surgery and Burrow’s recovery is still unclear, but initial assessments suggest he could be sidelined for at least three months.

Taylor commented, “I don’t know what toe rehab involves, but I know Joe will give it his all to get back on the field.”

This injury is Burrow’s third major setback in six seasons. It comes as a significant blow to the Bengals, who started the season strong with a 2-0 record, marking their best start since 2018. They are hoping to make a playoff run this year after missing out the past two seasons.

Burrow suffered the injury during a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he was sacked by defensive tackle Arik Armstead. He left the field on crutches and in a boot, adding to concerns about the team’s offensive line. Burrow has been sacked 201 times in his career, making it a critical point of discussion for the Bengals’ management. Their focus has been on investing in star players like Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, while the offensive line has seen less attention.

Guard Dalton Risner expressed his regret over the play that led to Burrow’s injury, saying, “That play has been devastating for me. I know my guy was in on the tackle. It just makes your stomach hurt.”

Burrow led the league last season with nearly 5,000 passing yards and 43 touchdowns. His absence will shift the focus to Jake Browning, who stepped in during the previous game, completing 21 of 32 passes for 241 yards and scoring a touchdown. Taylor has confidence in Browning, stating, “He’s earned the right to be in the spotlight.”

The Bengals face a challenging schedule ahead, facing five straight teams that made the playoffs last year. The Vikings, their next opponent, also have quarterback issues, with Carson Wentz stepping in following an injury to J.J. McCarthy.

While Burrow’s injury is a setback, the team’s spirit remains high. Taylor emphasized that the Bengals have room for improvement despite their solid start.

For more updates on the NFL, visit AP NFL.

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