Joe Burrow Discusses Mindset amid Injuries, Losing Season, Wants to Have 'Fun' Playing

Cincinnati Bengals star quarterback Joe Burrow detailed his mindset with the team currently owning a 4-9 record.

"If I want to keep doing this, I have to have fun doing this," Burrow told reporters Wednesday. "I have been through a lot. If it's not fun, then what am I doing it for? That is the mindset I am trying to bring to the table."

Burrow started the first two games of the season for Cincinnati, but suffered a toe injury in Week 2 that kept him out until he was able to make his return against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 13.

The Bengals own a 3-1 record with Burrow under center this year, but their playoff hopes are rapidly fading largely due to a 1-8 mark in the nine games he missed.

If Cincinnati is ultimately eliminated from postseason contention, it would mark the third consecutive year that the team misses the playoffs. The Bengals' recent struggles are especially disappointing given their Super Bowl appearance during the 2021 season and AFC Championship Game appearance the following year.

As for Burrow, the two-time Pro Bowler has still been effective despite his limited playing time this season. He's completed 59.3 percent of his throws for 734 yards and eight touchdowns compared to a pair of interceptions.

Still, 2025 marked the third season that Burrow suffered a significant injury in his NFL career. His rookie year came to an end due to a torn ACL and his 2023 campaign was cut short by a season-ending wrist injury.

With four games remaining in 2025, Burrow is focused on staying positive.