On Thursday, November 16th, 2023, the Cincinnati Bengals’ star quarterback, Joe Burrow, suffered a major injury to his right wrist, leading to a season-ending surgery. An MRI conducted on Friday revealed that Burrow had torn a ligament in his wrist during the Bengals’ Thursday Night Football game against the Baltimore Ravens.
The injury likely occurred during the second quarter of the game, as Burrow managed to throw a 4-yard touchdown pass before going down in pain. According to Burrow, he landed on his right wrist after being hit by Ravens defensive end, Jadeveon Clowney. The injury has put an end to Burrow’s 2023-2024 NFL season.
With Burrow out, backup quarterback Jake Browning has been tasked with leading the Bengals for the remainder of the season. Head coach Zac Taylor stated that players with similar injuries have been able to make full recoveries, although there is no timeline for Burrow’s return.
This is the second time that Burrow has had a season-ending injury in his four-year NFL career, having previously endured a knee injury during his rookie year. The Bengals head coach expressed his disappointment at seeing Burrow’s season cut short once again.
Controversy has surrounded Burrow’s injury, with the NFL investigating why he was not listed on the Bengals’ official injury report leading up to the game against the Ravens. Burrow himself has explained that the compression sleeve he was wearing on his calf and wrist were for minor ailments, not related to the injuries he suffered.
With Burrow’s season over, the Bengals, who had previously been considered Super Bowl contenders, are now listed at +10,000 odds to win the Super Bowl, down from 12-1. Despite the setback, Browning has expressed his excitement for the opportunity to lead the team.
Burrow’s injury has had an impact on the sports betting market, with the Bengals’ odds changing drastically. Despite the setback, Burrow’s achievements in his football career, both in college and the NFL, are significant, and he will be looking to make a strong comeback once he has recovered from his latest injury.