Joe Burrow plans to increase his practice workload this week as he targets a Thanksgiving Day return against the Baltimore Ravens, according to reports. The Bengals quarterback has responded well to early practice work as he recovers from a toe injury that has sidelined him through Week 11.
Burrow remains on a 21-day practice window that would allow Cincinnati to activate him for the Week 14 game in Buffalo if he cannot play Thursday. The 3-7 Bengals face long playoff odds but have not been mathematically eliminated from AFC North contention.
Sources indicate Burrow wants to play regardless of Cincinnati\'s playoff chances. The team will ultimately decide his availability based on how his toe responds to increased practice activity.
\"What appears clear is that Burrow wants to play football, record be damned,\" ESPN\'s Jeremy Fowler reported. \"Whether he actually plays remains to be seen -- the team will have something to say about that -- but he\'s of that mindset right now.\"
The Bengals blew fourth-quarter leads against the Jets and Bears in Weeks 8 and 9, losses that proved costly to their postseason hopes. Cincinnati would be just one game out of first place at 5-5 instead of 3-7.
The coaching staff may need wins to secure their positions after expectations were high entering the season. Zac Taylor would welcome Burrow\'s return as the organization faces scrutiny heading into the offseason.
Burrow has missed significant time in three different seasons since 2020. Playing now could build confidence and momentum for 2026, even if playoffs are unreachable.
With owner Mike Brown turning 90 in August, executive vice president Katie Blackburn is expected to play a pivotal role in the franchise\'s direction. Cincinnati risks missing the playoffs for a third consecutive season.