Joe Burrow out for season: Who will replace Cincinnati Bengals QB?

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a significant setback as Joe Burrow, their star quarterback, is ruled out for the remainder of the 2023 regular season due to a torn ligament. With their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the team must now navigate the challenging AFC North without their MVP-adjacent quarterback. Let’s explore the potential replacements and what they bring to the table.

Jake Browning

Jake Browning was thrust into action when Burrow left the field with a wrist injury during the Week 11 game against the Baltimore Ravens. Despite being in the NFL for four years, Browning has limited experience, having only attempted 14 passes this season.

While he managed a positive expected points added (EPA) total in the last game, much of it came in garbage time when the Bengals were already trailing. The jury is still out on Browning’s capacity to lead the team, and his limited track record raises questions about his ability to provide more than replacement-level play.

AJ McCarron

On the practice squad, the Bengals have AJ McCarron, a 33-year-old quarterback who last played with the XFL’s St. Louis Battlehawks. McCarron’s NFL experience is more extensive than Browning’s, but he has thrown only a single NFL pass since 2019. While his veteran presence might bring stability, there are doubts about whether McCarron is a viable long-term solution for the Bengals.

Raiding Rival Practice Squads: Limited Options

With the possibility of placing Burrow on injured reserve, the Bengals have the option to add a quarterback from a rival team’s practice squad. However, the available options are less than inspiring. Names like Shane Buechele, Trevor Siemian, and Kellen Mond may not instill confidence in Bengals fans. Siemian, who spent the offseason with Cincinnati, could be the most likely choice due to his familiarity with the team.

The list of potential replacements from other teams’ practice squads reads like a who’s who of XFL-caliber quarterbacks. From Shane Buechele to Jake Fromm, the available options may not offer a substantial upgrade over the Bengals’ current backup situation. The team may have to carefully weigh the pros and cons of each player before making a decision.

The absence of Joe Burrow poses a significant challenge for the Cincinnati Bengals as they strive to stay competitive in the tough AFC North. The team’s success in the coming weeks will depend on the ability of the chosen quarterback to step up and deliver in high-pressure situations. Whether it’s Jake Browning, AJ McCarron, or a quarterback from another team’s practice squad, the Bengals must quickly find a solution to keep their playoff hopes alive.