Why Joe Burrow Wanted to Return from Toe Injury Despite Bengals' Low Playoff Odds

Joe Burrow hasn't played since the second game of the season because of a toe injury but appears on track to take the field for Thursday's showdown against the Baltimore Ravens.

While some might think he should continue sitting out given the Cincinnati Bengals' 3-8 record, he has a different point of view.

"You look at it from my perspective—I am a football player," he told reporters Tuesday. "If I get hurt, I am going to go through the rehab process, and then I am going to let everyone know when I can play.

"I will not ever go to someone and say, 'Yeah, I'm healthy, but I'm not going out there and play.' I am never ever going to live my life being scared that something may happen."

According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the Bengals are +3,000 (bet $100 to win $3,000) to make the playoffs, as of Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. They might have to win out to get to 9-8 to have a realistic chance of accomplishing that goal, which underscores why some may think it is best for Burrow to focus on the future and avoid yet another injury.

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After all, he also missed six games in 2020 and seven games in 2023 as someone who has dealt with various serious injuries in his career. Chancing another one when Cincinnati is such a long shot to even make the playoffs is risky at best.

But Burrow's comments make sense from a player's perspective.

He did all the rehab work so he can return to the field, so he will surely look to do so when he has an opportunity. And as long as the Bengals are still mathematically alive in the postseason chase, there is reason to be out there leading the offense.

While the defense remains a major question mark and Tee Higgins is sidelined by a concussion, Burrow is one of the league's best quarterbacks when healthy. His throwing to Ja'Marr Chase will give Cincinnati a chance to win any game, which could lead to a stunning playoff run.

But it's only possible if he is actually on the field.