Joe Burrow may be sidelined, but the Bengals quarterback is still finding creative ways to lead-and this Christmas, he did it with a gift that’s as rare as it is unforgettable.
Every year, Burrow has made a habit of surprising his offensive linemen with unique, themed presents. Last year?
Samurai swords. This year?
He went prehistoric. Literally.
Burrow gifted his offensive line authentic fossils-real-deal dinosaur, mammoth, and bear fossils. Not replicas.
Not novelty items. Actual pieces of ancient history.
According to reports, Burrow hosted his offensive line at his home for the holiday, where the fossil collection was on full display. The linemen were invited to choose their own fossil, with veteran players picking first in order of seniority. It was a small but thoughtful gesture of respect for the guys who’ve spent the most time protecting him in the trenches.
“I think it speaks to his intelligence and interests and his desire to do something unique,” Bengals center Ted Karras said. “I thought it was really special.”
And that’s the thing about Burrow-he’s always been wired a little differently. Whether it’s his cerebral approach to the game, his cool-under-pressure demeanor, or, apparently, his fascination with paleontology, Burrow continues to show he’s not your typical franchise quarterback.
Of course, this season hasn’t gone the way anyone in Cincinnati hoped. Burrow’s campaign was derailed early by injury, limiting him to just six starts.
The Bengals have gone 4-2 in those games. Without him, they’ve struggled to a 1-8 record.
It’s a stark reminder of just how vital Burrow is to the team’s success-not just with his arm, but with his presence.
Despite the setback, Burrow’s long-term future in Cincinnati is secure. The Bengals locked him in with a five-year, $275 million extension ahead of the 2023 season-a deal that makes him one of the highest-paid players in NFL history. And while this year may have been a wash due to injury, there’s little doubt Burrow will be back in 2026 with something to prove.
In the meantime, his offensive line has some serious conversation pieces for their mantels. Fossils from a quarterback who’s determined not to become one himself.