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Ben Baby
CINCINNATI – A determination regarding Joe Burrow’s potential start for the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday remains uncertain.
Burrow is marked as questionable for the upcoming game against the New England Patriots. On Friday, he participated in a limited capacity and had fewer repetitions than Joe Flacco during the media-accessible segment of practice.
Bengals coach Zac Taylor indicated that the final decision will rest with him regarding Burrow’s ability to return from a turf toe injury that has kept him sidelined since Week 2. Taylor remarked.
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«We’ll utilize the time available and evaluate all the practice sessions this week,» Taylor stated. «He has done everything within his power to prepare himself for action. Now, I must decide our next steps.»
The veteran quarterback did not experience any setbacks during what has been his most involved week of practice since being cleared on November 10. He fully participated in practice on Wednesday and Thursday, taking snaps with the first-team offense, according to Taylor. Meanwhile, Flacco is healthy enough to start should he be called upon, despite dealing with a sprained throwing shoulder.
For Burrow to be activated for the game, he must be added to the 53-player roster by 4 p.m. on Saturday. Presently, he is in a 21-day window that permits him to practice with the team while on injured reserve.
Historically, Burrow has shown a tendency to expedite his return from injuries. In 2022, he played through an emergency appendectomy that required hospitalization without missing any games. In 2023, he managed to compete while dealing with a strained calf on two occasions — once at the beginning of the season and again after a subsequent aggravation.
During his sole press conference since resuming practice on November 10, Burrow remarked that both injuries have presented different challenges.
«I consider muscle injuries different from ligament injuries,» Burrow stated. «I have experienced them all and understand how to manage each type. I feel optimistic about my recovery.»
As the week unfolded, Burrow has expressed that he is fit enough to potentially take the field on Sunday and assist the Bengals (3-7) in breaking a three-game losing streak.
However, should Burrow take the field against the Patriots (9-2), he would need to play two games within five days, with the Bengals facing the Baltimore Ravens on Thanksgiving.
This is a crucial consideration that Taylor must take into account.
Taylor noted: «He appears to be in excellent form. He looks healthy. I anticipate him responding well. The uncertainty arises when he is tackled.»
«Every day that you can control matters — especially with injuries. Two games in a span of five days require careful consideration,» Taylor added.
Making this decision is a challenge, particularly for a player eager to compete, as Taylor recognizes.
«You rely on your instincts,» Taylor expressed. «Often, there isn’t a clear-cut decision. It’s essential to assess all the information, take your time, and reach the best decision for everyone involved.»
