Joe Burrow’s Unlikely Injury Recovery

NFL quarterbacks often face harsh impacts during games. Many top passers are already sidelined just a few weeks into the season due to these hits. However, Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals had a unique experience. After a game against the Houston Texans, he credited a tackle for helping rather than hurting him.

Burrow mentioned to Houston Texans pass rusher Will Anderson Jr. that the Texans’ defense “popped my rib back into place.” “I appreciate that,” Burrow expressed, which Anderson initially took as a joke. However, Burrow was serious about his claim.

The NFL released footage on Tuesday capturing a mic’d up Burrow recounting the event to teammates. “One of those hits popped my rib back in place,” Burrow explained to star receiver Ja’Marr Chase. His teammates, including Chase, were surprised and requested Burrow to repeat his statement. The quarterback confirmed with conviction.

Teammates believe they pinpointed the decisive moment, identified when Danielle Hunter delivered the impactful hit. “He stood up and he said ‘Aaaarrgghhh,'” receiver Tee Higgins recalled. Burrow reported feeling better afterward.

Before this, Burrow’s back had been a concern, leaving him listed on the injury report leading to Week 2. Despite this issue, he played in the game. His status for the next game against the Pittsburgh Steelers sparked interest, as improvements might relate to his rib adjusting back in place.

Despite Burrow being questionable ahead of their match, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor noted on Monday that Burrow emerged from the game in “good” condition. However, Burrow is not ready for a full practice week yet. Fans of the Bengals have some relief knowing that Burrow wasn’t left worse off by these intense hits.