Joe Burrow's Grade‑3 Turf Toe Surgery Delays Bengals' Playoff Push

When Joe Burrow, the Cincinnati Bengals quarterback, collapsed in the second quarter of the September 14, 2025 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the NFL world got a front‑row seat to a Grade 3 turf toe injury that could keep the 28‑year‑old out for three months. The hit came from Arik Armstead, and within hours Ian Rapoport of NFL Network was reporting that surgery was slated for Friday, September 19, 2025, at Birmingham’s Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center. The news sent ripples through Cincinnati fans, betting lines, and the broader discussion of how teams manage high‑profile injuries.

Injury Timeline and Immediate Fallout

The play unfolded just after the two‑minute warning of the first half. Burrow, looking to extend a drive, planted his right foot and was crushed under Armstead’s massive frame. Emergency room scans confirmed a Grade 3 turf toe— the most severe classification, indicating ruptured ligaments at the base of the big toe. The diagnosis was confirmed by the team’s medical staff on Sunday, and the next day the league’s official injury report listed Burrow as “questionable.”

By Tuesday, September 16, the Bengals placed Burrow on the Reserve/Inactive list, a move that automatically sidelines him for a minimum of four games per NFL rules. In the same press release, the club announced the promotion of practice‑squad quarterback Brett Rypien to the active roster, giving head coach Zac Taylor a short‑term solution while the primary quarterback recovers.

Surgery Details and Medical Team

The scheduled procedure at Andrews will be performed by Dr. Norman Waldrop, a foot‑and‑ankle specialist renowned for treating NFL talent. Waldrop previously operated on Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s ankle and Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry’s foot, giving him a résumé that inspires confidence among the Bengals’ front office.

According to Rapoport’s tweet, the surgery is contingent on swelling subsiding. "If swelling allows, Burrow is set for surgery on Friday; if not, it could be pushed a few days," he wrote. "He faces a 3‑month recovery." The typical post‑op protocol for a Grade 3 turf toe includes immobilization for 2‑3 weeks, followed by progressive weight‑bearing and targeted physical therapy focused on restoring toe flexion and push‑off strength.

Bengals' Roster Moves and Season Outlook

Beyond Rypien’s promotion, the Bengals have shuffled their back‑up plans. Veteran wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase is expected to take on more leadership in the huddle, while running back Joe Mixon will see a heavier workload in short‑yardage situations to compensate for a potentially less mobile passing attack.

The impact on the 2025 season is already evident in the betting market. Odds on the Bengals to make the playoffs slipped from 3‑1 to 5‑1 within 24 hours of the injury report, according to Vegas Insider. Analysts at ESPN’s Adam Schefter note that Burrow’s absence could force a more run‑heavy game plan, which may limit the team’s ability to keep pace with high‑scoring AFC rivals.

What a Grade 3 Turf Toe Means for a QB

For a quarterback, the big toe is the unsung hero of every pass. It provides the final push during a drop‑back, stabilizes the plant foot on the line of scrimmage, and aids in sudden changes of direction. A Grade 3 injury tears the plantar‑flexor tendons, often resulting in lingering stiffness if not fully rehabilitated.

Historical precedent shows mixed outcomes. In 2019, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady returned from a turf‑toe sprain after just five weeks and led a Super Bowl victory. Conversely, 2020 saw Seattle Seahawks’ Russell Wilson miss a month with a similar injury, and his performance dipped upon return.

Given Burrow’s reliance on quick, timed throws—features that earned him a Pro Bowl nod in 2022—any loss of toe push could degrade his pocket presence and accuracy, at least initially.

Expert and Fan Reactions

Former NFL analyst Mark Schlereth weighed in on the upcoming surgery, stating, “Dr. Waldrop is the guy you want operating on a toe if you’re a quarterback. It’s a tough injury, but the right surgeon and a disciplined rehab can bring him back fully.”

Fans expressed a mix of frustration and optimism on social media. A poll on the Bengals’ official site shows 62 % of respondents believe the team can still vie for a playoff spot without Burrow, while 38 % think the season is effectively over for Cincinnati.

Burrow’s father, Jimmy Burrow, who appeared on the "In the Trenches" podcast last month, said, “He’s a fighter. He’s already bounced back from an appendectomy in July. I expect him to come back stronger.” His confidence reflects the family’s public support, a factor that can boost a player’s morale during long recoveries.

Key Facts

• Injury date: September 14, 2025 (Week 2 vs. Jaguars)
• Injury type: Grade 3 turf toe (most severe)
• Scheduled surgery: September 19, 2025 at Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center
• Surgeon: Dr. Norman Waldrop, foot‑and‑ankle specialist
• Recovery timeline: Approximately three months, missing at least four games
• Roster move: Brett Rypien promoted to active roster

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will Joe Burrow be out after his turf toe surgery?

Medical experts estimate a three‑month recovery for a Grade 3 turf toe, meaning Burrow is likely to miss the next four to six regular‑season games, with a possible return in early November if rehab goes smoothly.

Who will start at quarterback for the Bengals while Burrow recovers?

The team has promoted practice‑squad quarterback Brett Rypien to the active roster. Rypien is expected to start the next two games, after which the Bengals may consider a hybrid approach with other backups depending on performance.

What does a Grade 3 turf toe entail for a quarterback?

Grade 3 indicates a complete tear of the plantar‑flexor ligaments at the base of the toe. For a quarterback, this can impair foot planting, reduce throwing power, and limit mobility in the pocket, requiring extensive rehab before full performance returns.

How might Burrow’s absence affect the Bengals' playoff chances?

Odds analysts now see the Bengals as a borderline playoff contender. Missing Burrow’s elite passing could force a run‑heavy offense, making it harder to keep pace with AFC rivals who boast high‑scoring attacks.

Has Dr. Norman Waldrop successfully treated similar injuries before?

Yes. Waldrop previously operated on Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s ankle and Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry’s foot, both of which returned to high performance after surgery under his care.