Joe Burrow has traveled a unique path in the world of football, navigating through challenges and triumphs to become one of the premier quarterbacks in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals. His journey has been anything but straightforward, filled with moments of self-doubt and pivotal decisions that shaped his career.
From Backup to Star
Burrow’s college career began at Ohio State, where he found himself as a backup for three years. This period was marked by frustration and introspection. “Yeah, 100% you doubt yourself. You don’t — I didn’t play for three years, and it wasn’t because I was hurt. That wasn’t a great feeling,” Burrow reflected on The Dan Patrick Show. Despite working tirelessly and improving week after week, he struggled to find his footing with the Buckeyes.
But Burrow’s story didn’t end there. He sought advice from his family, who had their own experiences in college football. “My dad and both of my brothers played college ball, so I was able to talk to them about it. Lean on them about their experiences and learning from them,” he shared. This support system was crucial as he made the decision to transfer, ultimately leading him to a stellar career at LSU.
The Decision to Transfer
Evidently, Burrow often pondered whether he should have taken a different route, such as joining the Ohio Bobcats and becoming a two-sport athlete. “I did. Yeah, I did,” he admitted, revealing that he had considered playing both football and basketball at the Mid-American Conference school. “That was — if I had gone there, I probably would’ve played both football and basketball. I was thinking about doing that.”
He acknowledged that Ohio State was one of the few Power Five offers he received. “If I didn’t have one of those, I probably just would’ve stayed at OU and played both,” he said. This insight into his thought process highlights the weight of his decision to leave a prestigious program for an opportunity to shine elsewhere.
Impact of the Transfer Portal and NIL
Burrow’s college football experience occurred before the advent of the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and the Transfer Portal, which have transformed the landscape of college athletics. Reflecting on this, he expressed that if the current environment had existed during his time, he might have made different choices. “I probably would’ve transferred much earlier than I did, but I had to graduate to go and play,” he explained.
He also noted the significant changes brought by the transfer portal, which allows athletes to switch schools more freely. “At the time, the transfer portal wasn’t a thing. I think it became a thing the next year after I transferred, but I still think you had to sit out a year,” he added. This shift has empowered players like Quinn Ewers, who have navigated their own college careers with greater flexibility.
Embracing the New Era
Burrow’s perspective on the current college football landscape is both pragmatic and encouraging. “You should take advantage of [NIL]. If you’re going to be able to make seven figures in college, you’ve got to go and take advantage of that,” he advised. His emphasis on seizing opportunities reflects a broader trend in college sports, where athletes are now able to monetize their talents while still in school.
For Burrow, the evolution of college football has opened doors that were previously closed. He believes that if high school athletes are presented with lucrative offers, they should follow the money. “If you’re in high school and you’re getting offered that, go wherever they’re paying you the most,” he stated, advocating for a more entrepreneurial approach to college athletics.
A Legacy of Resilience
Despite the challenges he faced, Burrow’s perseverance paid off. His remarkable performance at LSU led to a successful transition to the NFL, where he continues to excel with the Bengals. His journey serves as an inspiration to many young athletes who may find themselves in similar situations of doubt and uncertainty.
While Burrow’s college career was marked by struggles, it ultimately laid the foundation for his future success. He has become a symbol of resilience, proving that with hard work and determination, it is possible to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.
Looking Ahead
As Burrow reflects on his past, he also looks to the future. With the upcoming rookie quarterback class in 2025, he hopes to see the same level of success that he experienced. The landscape of college football is ever-changing, and with it comes new opportunities for young athletes to carve out their own paths.
In a world where the game continues to evolve, Burrow’s story reminds us that every journey is unique. Whether it’s through the challenges of being a backup, the decision to transfer, or the embrace of new opportunities, the essence of college football lies in the resilience and passion of its players. Joe Burrow’s journey is a testament to that spirit, and it continues to inspire the next generation of football stars.
