oe Burrow, the charismatic and talented quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals, has become one of the most compelling figures in the National Football League (NFL). Born on December 10, 1996, in Ames, Iowa, Joe Burrow‘s journey from a small-town athlete to a franchise savior is a story of perseverance, exceptional skill, and unfortunate setbacks. His career has been marked by record-breaking performances, leadership that inspires teammates, and a series of injuries that have tested his resolve. As of September 15, 2025, Joe Burrow faces yet another hurdle with a severe turf toe injury that could sideline him for months, raising questions about the Bengals’ season and his long-term durability. This article delves into every aspect of Joe Burrow‘s life and career, providing a comprehensive look at the man behind the helmet.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Burrow
Early Life and Family Roots
Joe Burrow‘s athletic prowess can be traced back to his family heritage. His father, Jim Burrow, was a professional football player who spent time in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers and later in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Jim also had a long coaching career, spanning over four decades, including stints at various colleges. Joe Burrow‘s uncles and other relatives were involved in sports, creating an environment where competition was second nature. His paternal grandmother even set a Mississippi state high school record for points scored in a basketball game during the 1940s, showcasing the family’s deep-rooted athletic legacy.
Growing up, Joe Burrow moved around due to his father’s coaching jobs. The family relocated to North Dakota in 2003 when Jim became the defensive coordinator at North Dakota State University, and then to Athens, Ohio, in 2005. It was in Athens where Joe Burrow honed his skills. He began playing quarterback in youth leagues, displaying early signs of the poise and accuracy that would define his professional career. Athens, a modest town in Appalachian Ohio, provided a grounded upbringing that Joe Burrow often credits for his work ethic and humility. He has spoken fondly of the community, even highlighting issues like food insecurity in the area during his Heisman Trophy speech, which led to significant donations to local food banks.
In high school at Athens High, Joe Burrow was a multi-sport star. He excelled in football, basketball, and baseball, but football was where he truly shone. As a quarterback, he led the Bulldogs to three consecutive playoff appearances and secured the school’s first seven playoff victories. Over his high school career, Joe Burrow amassed an impressive 11,416 passing yards and 157 touchdowns, while also rushing for 2,067 yards and 27 scores. His senior year in 2014 was particularly dominant, earning him Ohio’s Mr. Football Award and Gatorade Player of the Year honors. The team finished 14-1, falling just short in the state championship game. On the basketball court, he was a first-team all-state point guard, averaging over 20 points per game. This versatility demonstrated Joe Burrow‘s athleticism and competitive drive from a young age.
Recruiters took notice, rating him as a four-star prospect and the eighth-best dual-threat quarterback in the 2015 class by 247Sports. Joe Burrow committed to Ohio State University on May 27, 2014, drawn by the program’s prestige and the opportunity to compete at the highest level of college football.
College Career: From Backup to Legend
Joe Burrow‘s college journey began at Ohio State, where he redshirted his freshman year in 2015. For the next two seasons, he served as a backup to starter J.T. Barrett, appearing in just 10 games and completing 29 of 39 passes for 287 yards and two touchdowns. While he showed flashes of potential, the depth chart was stacked, and Joe Burrow sought a starting role elsewhere. After graduating with a degree in consumer and family financial services, he transferred to Louisiana State University (LSU) as a graduate student in May 2018, becoming immediately eligible.
At LSU, Joe Burrow transformed into a star. In his first season as a Tiger in 2018, he started all games, leading the team to a 10-3 record and a Fiesta Bowl victory over UCF. He threw for 2,894 yards, 16 touchdowns, and five interceptions, while rushing for 399 yards and seven scores. The offense showed promise, but it was the 2019 season that etched Joe Burrow into college football lore.
Under head coach Ed Orgeron and offensive coordinator Joe Brady, Joe Burrow orchestrated one of the greatest seasons in NCAA history. He passed for 5,671 yards and 60 touchdowns—breaking the FBS single-season record for touchdown passes—while adding 368 rushing yards and five scores. His passer rating of 202.0 set another record. Joe Burrow led LSU to an undefeated 15-0 season, capturing the SEC Championship with a 37-10 win over Georgia and the College Football Playoff National Championship with a 42-25 victory over Clemson. Along the way, he dismantled top teams like Alabama, Oklahoma, and Clemson, showcasing pinpoint accuracy, mobility, and clutch decision-making.
The accolades poured in: Heisman Trophy (with the largest margin in history), Maxwell Award, Walter Camp Player of the Year, Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, Davey O’Brien Award, Lombardi Award, Manning Award, and SEC Offensive Player of the Year. Joe Burrow was a unanimous first-team All-American and set the FBS record for total touchdowns responsible for (65, later tied). His Heisman speech, addressing poverty in his hometown, raised over $450,000 for the Athens County Food Pantry. This season not only elevated LSU but also solidified Joe Burrow as a generational talent.
NFL Draft and Rookie Challenges
Following his historic college campaign, Joe Burrow entered the 2020 NFL Draft as the consensus top prospect. The Cincinnati Bengals, coming off a 2-14 season, selected him first overall—the third straight Heisman-winning quarterback to go No. 1 after Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray. He signed a four-year, $36.1 million rookie contract on July 31, 2020, fully guaranteed.
Joe Burrow‘s rookie season started with promise. In his debut against the Los Angeles Chargers, he threw for 193 yards and rushed for a touchdown in a narrow loss. He quickly adapted to the pro game, setting an NFL rookie record with 37 completions in a game against the Cleveland Browns. Through 10 games, he completed 264 of 404 passes for 2,688 yards, 13 touchdowns, and five interceptions, boasting a low 1.2% interception rate—the fourth-lowest for a rookie in history.
Tragedy struck in Week 11 against the Washington Football Team when Joe Burrow suffered a devastating knee injury: tears to his ACL, MCL, PCL, and meniscus. The injury required surgery and ended his season prematurely. The Bengals finished 4-11-1, but Joe Burrow‘s grit earned him respect league-wide. He was named NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 2021 for his recovery, though the award is typically for returning players.
Building a Contender: 2021-2022 Seasons
Returning in 2021, Joe Burrow led a Bengals resurgence. He threw for 4,611 yards—leading the NFL—and 34 touchdowns, with 14 interceptions. Highlights included a franchise-record 525-yard game against the Baltimore Ravens and a 446-yard performance against the Kansas City Chiefs. Joe Burrow guided Cincinnati to a 10-7 record, winning the AFC North for the first time since 2015. In the playoffs, he ended the Bengals’ 31-year drought with a Wild Card win over the Las Vegas Raiders, followed by upsets over the Tennessee Titans and Chiefs to reach Super Bowl LVI. Though they lost 23-20 to the Los Angeles Rams, Joe Burrow‘s poise under pressure was evident, completing 22 of 33 passes for 263 yards and a touchdown.
In 2022, Joe Burrow continued his ascent, throwing for 4,475 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. The Bengals went 12-4, repeating as AFC North champions. Playoff wins over the Ravens and Bills set up an AFC Championship rematch with the Chiefs, where they fell 23-20. Joe Burrow earned his first Pro Bowl selection and finished fourth in MVP voting. His leadership transformed a perennial underdog into a powerhouse.
Injuries and Setbacks: 2023-2024
Injuries have been a recurring theme in Joe Burrow‘s career. In 2023, a calf strain during training camp limited his early-season mobility, causing him to miss time. He returned but suffered a wrist injury in Week 11 against the Ravens, tearing a ligament that required surgery and ended his year. The Bengals finished 9-8, missing the playoffs. Despite the shortened season, Joe Burrow threw for 2,309 yards and 15 touchdowns.
2024 saw Joe Burrow bounce back strongly. He played all 17 games, throwing for over 4,000 yards and earning another Pro Bowl nod. The Bengals made the playoffs but were eliminated early. Joe Burrow was named NFL Comeback Player of the Year for the second time, voted to the NFL Top 100 for the fifth straight year, and set Bengals records for most 300-yard games in a season (nine). His contract extension—a five-year, $275 million deal signed in 2023—made him one of the highest-paid players, reflecting his value.
Playing Style, Strengths, and Criticisms
Joe Burrow‘s playing style draws comparisons to legends like Tom Brady and Drew Brees. At 6’4″ and 215 pounds, he combines arm strength, accuracy, and mobility. His quick release, pocket presence, and ability to extend plays make him elite. Joe Burrow excels in high-pressure situations, earning the nickname “Joe Cool” for his calm demeanor. He led the NFL in completion percentage in 2021 (70.4%) and has a career passer rating over 100.
However, critics point to his injury history as a concern, often linked to the Bengals’ offensive line struggles. Sacked 148 times in his first four seasons, Joe Burrow has faced constant pressure, contributing to his ailments. His willingness to take hits for big plays is both a strength and a risk. Offensively, he thrives in shotgun formations with play-action and deep throws to receivers like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Off-Field Life, Endorsements, and Philanthropy
Off the field, Joe Burrow maintains a low-key profile. He’s an avid chess player, often seen with a board in the locker room, and enjoys video games like Super Smash Bros. In 2023, he and other athletes purchased a farm in Iowa, reflecting his Midwestern roots. In 2024, he bought a $2.9 million Batmobile replica, adding flair to his persona.
Endorsements include deals with brands like Nike and Bose, which he once said he’d live off to save his NFL salary. Joe Burrow has been vocal on social issues, supporting abortion rights in 2022 and advocating for gun control after a mass shooting. His foundation focuses on hunger and mental health in underserved areas.
Personal life details are private; he’s been linked to Olivia Holzmacher since college, and they share a life in Cincinnati.
Latest Updates: The 2025 Season and Toe Injury
As of September 15, 2025, Joe Burrow‘s season took a dramatic turn. In Week 2 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, he suffered a turf toe injury in the second quarter, ruled out for the game. The Bengals rallied to a 31-27 win with backup Jake Browning stepping in effectively. However, reports indicate Joe Burrow is dealing with a Grade 3 turf toe, requiring surgery that will sideline him for at least three months. This could extend into December or beyond, potentially ending his 2025 campaign.
Sources from ESPN confirm the surgery is necessary, with recovery timelines varying based on severity. The injury spotlights ongoing issues with the Bengals’ offensive line, which has failed to protect Joe Burrow adequately. Fans and analysts express frustration, with social media buzzing about his “injury-prone” label and calls for better protection. Browning, who impressed in 2023, will start, but the Bengals’ playoff hopes dim without Joe Burrow.
Prior to the injury, Joe Burrow started the season strong, but the Bengals were 0-1 entering Week 2. His absence could lead to a high draft pick in 2026, perhaps targeting line help. Despite this, Joe Burrow‘s resilience suggests another comeback is possible—he’s already a two-time Comeback Player of the Year.
Achievements, Records, and Legacy
Joe Burrow‘s resume is impressive: Two Pro Bowls (2022, 2024), NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2021, 2024), led NFL in completions (2021), completion percentage (2021), and passing yards (2021). Bengals records include most passing yards in a game (525), season (4,611), and career touchdowns (as of 2024). He’s the only quarterback to beat Patrick Mahomes three times in the playoffs.
At 28, Joe Burrow‘s legacy is building. He’s revitalized the Bengals, bringing them to relevance not seen since the 1980s. If he overcomes injuries, a Super Bowl win could cement him among the greats. Comparisons to Brady stem from his mental toughness and big-game performances.
Conclusion
Joe Burrow embodies the highs and lows of professional sports. From his humble beginnings in Athens to LSU stardom and NFL stardom, he’s captivated fans with his talent and tenacity. Yet, injuries—like the recent turf toe—remind us of football’s brutality. As the Bengals navigate 2025 without him, Joe Burrow‘s story remains one of inspiration. His future holds promise, provided health cooperates. Whether leading comebacks or advocating off-field, Joe Burrow is more than a quarterback—he’s a symbol of resilience
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46264241/sources-bengals-joe-burrow-need-surgery-turf-toe
