Joe Burrow has made a name for himself as one of the premier quarterbacks in the NFL, recently earning the prestigious Comeback Player of the Year award. However, the journey to this accolade was not without its challenges. Burrow, who now leads the Cincinnati Bengals, opened up about his struggles during his time as a backup at the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Facing Doubts and Challenges
Reflecting on his early career, Burrow admitted, “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.” He shared these thoughts during a recent appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, where he emphasized the hard work he put in, stating, “I was working very hard and improving every single week, and just — never put it all together there.”
The uncertainty of his future weighed heavily on him, leading him to consider alternative paths. “I did. Yeah, I did,” Burrow said when asked if he thought about pursuing basketball with the Ohio Bobcats. “If I had gone there, I probably would’ve played both football and basketball. I was thinking about doing that.”
Family Support and Early Decisions
Burrow’s family played a crucial role during these tough times. With both his father and brothers having played college football, he leaned on their experiences for guidance. “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 explained. This support helped him navigate his challenges and ultimately led to his decision to transfer.
“You know, Ohio State was really kind of one of my only Power Five, big-time school offers. If I didn’t have one of those, I probably just would’ve stayed at OU and played both,” Burrow noted. His experience at Ohio State, while difficult, was pivotal in shaping his future.
The Impact of Transfer Portal and NIL
In the current landscape of college football, the Transfer Portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities have transformed the game. Burrow expressed that if these options had been available during his time, his career trajectory might have looked quite different. “I probably would’ve transferred much earlier than I did, but I had to graduate to go and play,” he said. He recalled that the transfer portal wasn’t established until after he made his move.
He also shared his thoughts on NIL, emphasizing its importance for young athletes. “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. If you’re in high school and you’re getting offered that, go wherever they’re paying you the most.” This perspective highlights the changing dynamics in college sports, where financial opportunities are now a significant consideration for athletes.
A Journey of Growth and Resilience
Burrow’s journey from a backup quarterback at Ohio State to a star in the NFL is a testament to his resilience and determination. His experiences have not only shaped him as a player but also as a person. The struggles he faced during his early years have instilled in him a deep appreciation for the game and the opportunities it has afforded him.
Now, as he stands at the forefront of the NFL, Burrow serves as an inspiration to many young athletes navigating their own paths. His story is a reminder that setbacks can lead to greater successes, and that perseverance is key in the face of adversity.
Joe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals looks on prior to the NFL Pro Bowl Games at Camping World Stadium on February 02, 2025, in Orlando, Florida.
As Burrow continues to shine in the NFL, his reflections on his college days serve as a powerful narrative of growth. He has not only become a star on the field but also a voice for change in the college football landscape. His journey is a compelling story of ambition, family support, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
