If history has taught us anything, it’s that September hasn’t been kind to Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. But this year, things are looking a bit different for Burrow as he embarks on the season with a fresh, full training camp under his belt for the first time.
Training Camp Woes No More
In the past four seasons, Burrow has often been hindered by injuries and illnesses that have kept him out during crucial training camp periods. This early-season rust perhaps explains his lower productivity in September. But this time, Burrow is venturing into what he calls “uncharted territory,” having finally had the chance to fully participate in camp activities.
A Painful Past, A Promising Future
Despite a right wrist injury cutting his 2023 season short, the setback didn’t hold Burrow back in August. Unfortunately, the injury did prevent him from fully showcasing the growth he had achieved last year.
Burrow shared his enthusiasm: “I’m more well equipped to go outside the pocket and make those kinds of plays because I’ve been working really hard on that the last two years,” he said, speaking with conviction. “I didn’t quite get to show some of that until the last couple games that I played last year. But early on, I didn’t really get to show that. That was the biggest emphasis of last offseason for me, and that’s continued into this offseason. So that’s a part of my game that I’ve decided to showcase.”
Spotlight on Joe Burrow’s New Skills
This fresh development in Burrow’s gameplay—his improved ability to extend plays outside the pocket—could very well be the key to the Bengals’ success this season. After all, last year’s unfortunate injury kept them on the sidelines during the playoffs. Now, with a fine-tuned Burrow ready to showcase his talents for a full 17 games, the Bengals’ faithful are brimming with hope.
Their anticipation is palpable, almost like the air before a thunderstorm—burgeoning with potential energy, ready to electrify the field. Here’s to Burrow shaking off the ghosts of Septembers past, and leading his team to a season of triumphs!