Joe Burrow hopes to return from a season-ending injury without any roadblocks in 2024.
During Monday’s press conference, the Cincinnati Bengals quarterback told reporters that he’s “getting better every day.” It’s too soon to set any timelines for next season, but he thinks he could be cleared to return before the Bengals report for the first offseason practices.
“We’ll have to see,” Burrow said. “I think I should be good by OTAs. But we’ll see. Pretty early on to really tell yet.”
Burrow’s season ended when suffering a torn ligament in his right wrist two months ago. Since he hasn’t played since Week 11, Burrow reasoned that he has “a leg up” on offseason preparation.
“Obviously the throwing part will come back with time,” he said. “Just as far as physically — weight room, whole body — I should be in a good spot. … We’re modifying in ways that keep me in good physical shape and just going to keep getting better as the wrist gets better.”
Calf issues bothered Burrow to start a 2023 campaign that began with him signing a $275 million extension. He averaged 4.8 yards per attempt with two touchdowns and two interceptions during a sloppy 1-3 start for the Bengals.
The former No. 1 pick appeared to turn a corner, throwing 10 touchdowns during a four-game winning streak. Just as he looked fully healthy, a wrist injury ended his season on Nov. 16.
Jake Browning played well in Burrow’s place, posting a 70.4 completion percentage and 98.4 passer rating. Yet the Bengals missed the playoffs at 9-8.
Burrow will look to steer Cincinnati back into contention next season. It’ll be a pivotal offseason with Tee Higgins and D.J. Reader among the team’s notable free agents.