Joe Burrow’s recent comments at a press conference have sparked more than just headlines - they’ve stirred up a wave of speculation across the NFL landscape. The Bengals’ franchise quarterback didn’t say he wanted out of Cincinnati, but his words painted a picture of a player reflecting deeply on where he stands - not just physically, but mentally and emotionally - after yet another injury setback.
“If I want to keep doing this, I have to have fun doing it,” Burrow said, his tone more introspective than we've heard in a while. “I have been through a lot. If it’s not fun, then what am I doing it for?”
That’s the kind of quote that makes teams around the league perk up their ears. It’s not a trade request, and it’s not a retirement hint - but it is a window into the mindset of a player who’s battled through injuries, pressure, and the weight of expectations since stepping into the NFL spotlight. Burrow also mentioned he had “a lot of things going on,” both on and off the field, which only adds to the intrigue.
Right now, there’s no concrete indication that Burrow is looking to leave Cincinnati. He’s in his sixth season with the Bengals, and by all accounts, remains close with key teammates like Ja'Marr Chase. But when a quarterback of Burrow’s caliber starts publicly questioning his motivation, you can bet front offices around the league start running scenarios.
That’s exactly what ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky did this week, floating three teams that could make sense if Burrow ever became available: the Jets, Raiders, and Steelers. “It would shock me if three teams weren’t on the phone today, after what he said yesterday,” Orlovsky said.
“If I were those three organizations, I'm in a brainstorm meeting now, figuring out a way to propose a way to get Joe Burrow. And I don't necessarily care what it takes.”
Let’s break down why those three teams would be in the mix.
New York Jets (3-10)
The Jets are in full reset mode after a brutal 2025 season that saw them jettison key veterans in a November fire sale.
Justin Fields, who began the year as the starter, couldn’t hold onto the job. With a war chest of draft picks and a glaring hole at quarterback, New York is in position to swing big - and Burrow would be the kind of franchise-altering move that could finally stabilize a team that’s been searching for consistency under center for decades.
Las Vegas Raiders (2-11)
The Raiders’ situation isn’t much brighter.
Geno Smith was brought in to bridge the gap, but he’s struggled mightily, leading the league with 14 interceptions. It’s been a rough debut season for Smith in Vegas, and it’s looking more and more like a one-year experiment.
Pete Carroll’s presence on the sideline adds intrigue, but the team clearly needs a long-term answer at quarterback - and Burrow would be an immediate upgrade.
Pittsburgh Steelers (7-6)
Now here’s where things get interesting.
The Steelers are actually leading the AFC North at 7-6, thanks in large part to the steady hand of veteran Aaron Rodgers. But Rodgers is 42, and the clock is ticking.
Behind him? Mason Rudolph and Will Howard - neither of whom has shown enough to be considered the heir apparent.
Pittsburgh could be in the market for a future face of the franchise, and if Burrow were ever available, they’d be foolish not to explore it.
Of course, all of this hinges on Burrow’s mindset and what he wants moving forward. He’s under contract.
.@dorlovsky says there are three teams that should be brainstorming today about how to get Joe Burrow: the Jets, Raiders, and Steelers. pic.twitter.com/Vu4QqDykxm
— UNSPORTSMANLIKE Radio (@UnSportsESPN) December 11, 2025
He’s the face of the Bengals. And he’s built strong chemistry with players like Chase.
But the NFL is a league of windows - and Cincinnati’s window, once wide open, has been fogged by injuries and unmet expectations.
Burrow’s comments may not have been a cry for help, but they were a reminder: even elite quarterbacks are human. They get worn down.
They think about legacy, health, and happiness. And when a player of Burrow’s stature starts asking, “What am I doing this for?” - it’s not just a personal reflection.
It’s a conversation starter for the entire league.
So no, Joe Burrow isn’t on the trade block. But if he ever is? You better believe there’ll be a line out the door.