Jake Browning Sheds Light on Joe Burrow's Focus Following Toe Surgery

Joe Burrow clearly trusts Jake Browning and the coaching staff to make the correct changes after their historic loss to the Vikings.

Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett (95) chases down Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) during the first half of an NFL football game at Huntington Bank Field, Sept. 7, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio. / Jeff Lange / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

CINCINNATI — Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow underwent successful surgery last Friday on his left toe.

The 28-year-old is expected to miss a minimum of three months. While the Bengals haven't put any timetable on it, Burrow is already doing everything he can with hopes of returning to the field this season.

Burrow was in the locker room with quarterback Jake Browning on Monday following a disappointing 48-10 loss to the Vikings. The 38-point defeat was the worst in team history.

Burrow was on a cart and had his left foot wrapped. Meanwhile, Browning completed 19-of-27 passes for 140 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions against the Vikings, including a pick six.

Did Burrow have any advice for Browning after watching the film?

"He's in the middle of some rehab and all that," Browning said on Thursday. "So not a whole lot."

That quote says a lot about Burrow.

One, he's clearly focused on recovering and doing everything he can to play again this season. It's early in the process, but that's a good sign.

It also shows that Burrow isn't going to hover over Browning during this process. Browning made seven starts in 2023. He had his ups and downs during that stretch, ultimately leading Cincinnati to a 4-3 record.

If Browning can lead the Bengals to an above .500 record this time, then they'll be in good shape. Their 2-0 start helps their cause.

The downside?

Browning and the Bengals have a tough schedule over the next four weeks. They play the Broncos in Denver on Monday Night Football. They come home for a matchup with the Detroit Lions, then they hit the road to play the Packers in Green Bay and end the four game swing with a home matchup against the Steelers.

Check out the Bengals' entire 2025 regular season schedule here.

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