Joe Burrow’s injury has certainly raised concerns for the Cincinnati Bengals after a series of setbacks. A knee surgery in his rookie season cost him six games, while another wrist injury kept him sidelined for seven games in 2023. He also faced a lengthy recovery from an emergency appendectomy in July 2022, contributing to a rough start to that season.

Now, the latest hindrance is a turf toe injury that’s expected to keep him out for three months. The Bengals are currently at 2-0, but this setback compels a serious examination of the backup quarterback’s role on NFL teams, specifically on a roster heavily reliant on a franchise player like Burrow.

As discussed on the podcast “With the First Pick,” co-hosted by former Titans GM Ran Carthon and CBS Sports NFL insider Jonathan Jones, teaming up with strong backup quarterbacks is a strategy necessary not just for when starters are injured but as a long-term planning method. The wealth of recent quarterback drafts displays the varying choices teams must face when deciding who to select while balancing immediate needs against potential future benefits.

The Bengals must consider whether they have the luxury of investing in additional quarterbacks when they are juggling salary cap limitations and operational needs for other positions on the field. While Joe Burrow’s situation is unique, the league’s history of backup quarterbacks highlights the importance of having a reliable alternative ready to step in when needed.

Recent Examples of Backup Quarterbacks

1. Jalen Hurts, Eagles

   • When drafted: 2020 (2nd round by Eagles)

   The Eagles faced criticism when they drafted Hurts four years post selecting Carson Wentz 2nd overall. Hurts has since become a contender.

   “We believe Wentz is a guy to lead us to our next Super Bowl championship.” - Howie Roseman

2. Jimmy Garoppolo, Rams

   • When drafted: 2014 (2nd round by Patriots)

3. Jacoby Brissett, Cardinals

   • When drafted: 2016 (3rd round by Patriots)

4. Kirk Cousins, Falcons

   • When drafted: 2012 (4th round by Commanders)

5. Mason Rudolph, Steelers

   • When drafted: 2014 (3rd round by Steelers)

The Bengals are currently looking at Jake Browning, a former undrafted free agent from Minnesota, to lead while Burrow recovers. Browning had played in a similar role before when Burrow was down for the final games of the 2023 season, indicating that developing competent backup quarterbacks critically assesses a team’s survivability without its star starter.