Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow addressed speculation regarding his future with the team following a disappointing 24-0 loss to the Baltimore Ravens on December 10, 2023. In the days leading up to the game, Burrow mentioned the importance of having fun while playing, which led to questions about his commitment to the Bengals, the franchise that selected him first overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. Burrow clarified after the game, stating, “My comments had nothing to do with Cincinnati. My comments had everything to do with me and my mindset and football.”
Burrow’s performance against the Ravens marked a low point in a season that has been challenging for him and the team. He completed 25 of 39 passes for 225 yards, with no touchdowns and two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. This defeat eliminated Cincinnati from playoff contention earlier than any season since 2020, when they were out of the running by Week 10.
Burrow did not shy away from assessing his performance critically. “I think this is one of the worst games that I’ve played,” he said. “I’m honest with myself and my play, and I hold myself to a high standard, and today didn’t come close.” The game started with promise as Cincinnati’s offense executed an 11-play drive, but a 15-yard sack on Burrow pushed them out of field goal range.
As the game progressed, the Bengals struggled to find the end zone, failing to score any points in the first three quarters for the fourth time this season. The harsh weather conditions, with temperatures around 10 degrees Fahrenheit and a wind chill of minus 1, contributed to the dismal atmosphere at Paycor Stadium, where many fans left before the final whistle.
Head coach Zac Taylor acknowledged the team’s struggles, taking responsibility for the offensive failures. “Bad football teams do losing things,” Burrow noted, emphasizing that for the Bengals to compete for championships, the quarterback must perform at a higher level.
Despite Burrow’s self-criticism, his teammates expressed support. Left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. remarked, “He is our engine, our source of energy. It isn’t just all on him. A lot of things go into not being able to score a point on a Sunday.”
This loss also highlights a broader issue for Cincinnati, as they have been unable to replicate their previous success. After a Super Bowl appearance in the 2021 season and a return to the AFC Championship Game in 2022, injuries and inconsistency have derailed their efforts. Burrow himself has faced significant injuries, including a torn wrist ligament in 2023 and a turf toe injury earlier this season that caused him to miss nine games.
Despite this setback, Burrow remains optimistic about his future. He views this particular performance as an anomaly rather than a reflection of his abilities, having previously been recognized as an MVP finalist and a two-time Pro Bowl selection.
Teammate Ja’Marr Chase emphasized Burrow’s passion for the game, stating, “He just loves the game. He just wants to be great at the end of the day.” Chase also reassured Burrow that he should not dwell on one poor performance, indicating a strong bond and support within the Bengals’ locker room.
As the Bengals regroup for the remainder of the season, the focus will be on rebuilding confidence and addressing the issues that have hindered their performance throughout the year.
