After a period of recovery from a turf toe injury, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow took a significant stride toward his return to the gridiron, making his comeback to practice on a 'limited basis' today. Local 12 reported that Burrow has been off the playing field since suffering the injury against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 14th.
Being activated for the 21-day practice window means Burrow can participate in workouts and drills with the team without being counted against their 53-man roster. Just out of surgery on September 19th, with doctors initially predicting at least a three-month hiatus, Burrow's return at the eight-week mark signals an encouraging prognosis. While he returned to practice, the team clarified that he would not be ready for the upcoming Sunday's game, according to USA Today.
Over at Cleveland.com, the scenario mirrored the optimism with acknowledgment that Burrow's return to practice doesn't necessarily equate to immediate game readiness. The practice window serves as a buffer, allowing the sixth-year QB to regain his fitness and rapport with the team without the pressure of instant in-game performance.
Additionally, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor was quoted as saying, "I think he's ready for this as part of the recovery, to come back on a limited basis and progress it on the field with the players," in an interview with USA Today. Coach Taylor elaborated on the measured approach towards Burrow's integration, emphasizing that no 11-on-11 drills would be included early in his return to the field. Despite being eager to see Burrow throw routes to receivers, the team is eyeing a cautious trajectory for his full comeback.
