Cincinnati Bengals QB Joe Burrow Out for Season with Torn Ligament in Wrist
The Cincinnati Bengals received devastating news ahead of their upcoming game against the Ravens, as head coach Zac Taylor announced that star quarterback Joe Burrow will miss the remainder of the 2023 season due to a torn ligament in his wrist. This season-ending injury was sustained during the Bengals’ Week 11 matchup with the Ravens, when Burrow suffered a right wrist injury and had to leave the game in the second quarter.
Initially, Burrow’s injury was characterized as a sprained wrist, but further evaluation revealed a more serious diagnosis. The injury occurred during a tackle from Ravens pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney, and despite completing a touchdown pass to Joe Mixon on that same drive, Burrow was clearly in discomfort and unable to grip the ball effectively.
Burrow’s absence will be a significant blow for the Bengals, as he had been a key factor in their recent success. Since Week 5, Burrow had the best completion percentage in the NFL at 74.1%. However, his injury history also includes a calf injury earlier in the season, as well as a torn ACL/MCL, a dislocated finger, and a sprained MCL in previous years.
The Bengals have struggled without Burrow in the past, with a 4-19 record when he is unable to start. The loss of Burrow led to Jake Browning taking over at quarterback in the game against the Ravens, where the Bengals ultimately fell 34-20.
With a 5-5 record, the Bengals’ playoff hopes have been further damaged by Burrow’s season-ending injury. The team will have to rely on Browning as they face the Steelers in Week 12 and then play a prime-time matchup with the Jaguars in Week 13.
Burrow’s absence will undoubtedly be felt in Cincinnati, and the Bengals will have to regroup and adjust their game plan as they move forward without their franchise cornerstone.