The Bengals’ playoff hopes officially came to a screeching halt on Sunday, shut out 24-0 by a Ravens team that didn’t leave much room for doubt. That loss, tough as it was, came on the heels of some eye-raising comments from quarterback Joe Burrow-remarks that sparked speculation about his mindset and future. But if anyone thought Cincinnati might start looking ahead to 2026, head coach Zac Taylor made it clear: they’re not packing it in just yet.
When asked Monday whether Burrow would continue to start despite the Bengals being eliminated, Taylor didn’t mince words: “Because we want to win.” Simple as that.
And Burrow? He’s right there with him.
The quarterback, who’s never been one to shy away from high expectations, clarified that his recent comments were more about his personal approach to the game-not a hint at an exit from Cincinnati.
Now, with three games left on the schedule-against the Dolphins, Cardinals, and Browns-the Bengals are shifting into a different kind of gear. The postseason may be off the table, but the team isn’t treating these final weeks like a formality. There’s pride on the line, development to be had, and for Burrow, a chance to keep building momentum after a season that’s been anything but smooth.
Burrow’s 2025 campaign has been defined by a comeback that didn’t quite have enough time to take full flight. After suffering a turf toe injury in September that required surgery, he missed two months of action. His return came earlier than many expected, and while the Bengals are 3-2 in games he’s started, the team only managed one win during his absence-a stretch that ultimately buried their postseason chances.
Still, the decision to keep Burrow under center in these final games does raise a fair question: is it worth the risk? After all, this is a franchise quarterback coming off surgery, and the games ahead won’t change the standings.
But Burrow addressed that concern last month, saying he doesn’t want to play the game with fear of injury hanging over him. That mindset seems to have carried over to the organization as well.
There’s also a bigger picture here. These next three games aren’t just about wins and losses-they’re about reps, rhythm, and ending the season with something to build on. For Burrow, who thrives on competition and leadership, being on the field matters, even if the playoff lights have dimmed.
So, yes, the Bengals are out of the race. But don’t expect them-or their franchise QB-to start coasting. There’s still football to be played, and for a team that believes in its core, these next three weeks are a chance to remind everyone what that foundation looks like when it’s healthy, hungry, and still fighting.