NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero are reporting that Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow suffered a Grade 3 turf toe which would require surgery and cause him to miss three months.
Prayers up for Bengals QB Joe Burrow 🙏 pic.twitter.com/t6bb9gRlJN
— Fantasy+ (@playfantasyplus) September 14, 2025
#Bengals star QB Joe Burrow is feared to have suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury, one that would require surgery and put him out at least 3 months, per me and @TomPelissero.
Burrow is still evaluating options, but the ones that would keep him on the field are dwindling. pic.twitter.com/UqYZejRoLa
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 15, 2025
Rapoport also said that Burrow is still investigating his options, but this is bad news for a Bengals team that is 2-0 and signed all of its young stars in the offseason hoping to making another Super Bowl run in 2025.
What Is Turf Toe?
It is a joint sprain in the big toe. The severity of the sprain is determined by its grade. Grade 1 is the least severe, and Grade 3 is the worst.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a Grade 3 turf toe injury indicates the soft tissue of the big toe is completely torn, and swelling and pain are predominant.
Surgery is a viable option if severe tears, fractures or joint damage require repair.
Cleveland Clinic says that a two to six month recovery is required for a Grade 3 turf toe injury, and surgery normally lengthens the recovery time.
Burrow Will Seek Multiple Opinions
Joe Burrow will seek multiple opinions as he figures out the best path to recovery.
He will want to prioritize returning to the Bengals as soon as possible as well as his long term health.
In the meantime, Bengals fans are heartbroken by this news.
Bengals legend Chad Ochocinco Johnson offered his support and his toe to Burrow.
Joe Burrow you can have my toe… 🙏🏾
— Chad Johnson (@ochocinco) September 14, 2025
Burrow was spotted leaving the facility with a protective boot and crutches.
Joe Burrow wearing a protective boot and using crutches. #Bengals
— Laurel Pfahler (@LaurelPfahler) September 14, 2025
