Bengals Weigh Risks and Rewards of Burrow's Preseason Debut

As of August 7th, 2025, the Cincinnati Bengals are grappling with a critical decision regarding their star quarterback, Joe Burrow. Burrow, who has experienced a meteoric rise from high school to the Super Bowl in just his second NFL season, is set to embark on his first intensive preseason slate.

Preseason games may not carry the same magnitude as regular-season or playoff contests, but they hold immense significance for Burrow and the Bengals. In the past, Burrow has been shielded from extensive preseason action due to various injuries, including torn ligaments in his knee and wrist, as well as an emergency appendectomy and a calf strain.

Now, the Bengals must strike a delicate balance between Burrow's preparation and his safety. The team is faced with the challenge of exposing their franchise quarterback to live pass-rushers in exhibition games, a decision that comes with inherent risks.

Burrow himself has expressed a desire to feel the pressure of an opposing pass rush before the regular season begins, acknowledging that the timing and intensity of game action cannot be replicated in practice. However, the Bengals must carefully manage Burrow's playing time and the types of plays he runs to ensure he is ready for the season without subjecting him to unnecessary harm.

The Bengals' preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles, known for their talented pass rush, will be a crucial test. The team must navigate this challenge while also considering Burrow's historical performance in the early weeks of the season, which has been less consistent than his dominant late-season form.

As the Bengals navigate this critical juncture, the stakes are high. Striking the right balance between Burrow's preparation and his safety could be the key to the team's success in the upcoming season.