Joe Burrow is struggling with injuries.
The Bengals superstar quarterback has already suffered two season-ending injuries early in his career and acknowledged the mental toll those setbacks have taken on him.
“When the injuries pile up, football death is in the back of your mind,” Burrow said Tuesday. According to ESPN:“So, it’s definitely something I’ve thought about and something I’ve had to fight for.”
Burrow has only played four seasons in the NFL, but injuries have been a frequent issue for the former LSU star.
His 2020 rookie season ended after 10 games after suffering a torn ACL late in the season.
Burrow was limited to just 10 games last year because of a torn ligament in his right hand, an injury that led the Bengals to miss the playoffs for the first time in three years.
The 27-year-old did not say how his throwing hand is doing in recovery but said he expects to be “back in time for the season,” according to ESPN.
According to the media, the player did not pitch during practice on June 4th.
Burrow told reporters that the injury has forced him to change his approach to playing through injury and pain, citing a torn right calf muscle he suffered last training camp.
The Bengals and Burrow struggled early last year, but Burrow played through discomfort and got better and healthier mid-season.
He injured his wrist in the Week 11 loss to the Ravens.
“When you overcome adversity and come out on top, it definitely makes you feel invincible,” Burrow told ESPN. “Obviously, I know that’s not the case, so it’s always about finding balance and that’s what this offseason has been like for me.”
The Bengals are giving their quarterback rest days during the offseason in an effort to have him available to play in time for the season to begin.
“This year we’re being a lot more aggressive about that,” Barrow said. “We don’t need to be ready in the middle of June. We need to be ready by early September through February.”
“That’s how I’m approaching this offseason, my rehab plan, my practices and training camp. I’m approaching it with the desire to play in February.”
The Bengals open their season at home against the Patriots in Week 1, but it’s questionable whether receiver Tee Higgins will take the field.
Higgins is embroiled in a contract dispute that could impact his availability.
Ja’Marr Chase is also looking for a long-term contract extension.
Burrow remains hopeful for this season despite the uncertainty at receiver.
“I was born for this,” Burrow said, “my team was born for this, the people around me have been through it with me.”
“I’m excited for this season. I’m excited to see what we’re going to do. I’m excited to see what’s in the locker room.”
