Report: Burrow has turf toe, could miss 3 months if surgery needed

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is believed to have suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury, according to Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.

If confirmed, Burrow's injury would require surgery and sideline him for at least three months, Rapoport adds. The Bengals passer also tore ligaments in his toe, making surgery a reportedly likely option.

The Bengals are sending images of Burrow's toe injury to foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Cincinnati announced that the 28-year-old exited Sunday's 31-27 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars with a left toe injury. He sustained it after getting sacked in the second quarter and didn't return.

Burrow had a crutch and walking boot in the locker room, according to Jay Morrison of BengalsTalk.com.

Cincinnati turned to Jake Browning once Burrow went out. Browning threw three interceptions in relief but also passed for two touchdowns and rushed for a game-winning score in the final seconds.

Burrow, the 2020 No. 1 pick, has established himself as one of the NFL's premier quarterbacks, but injuries have been an issue for him. The league's 2024 passing leader has missed time with knee, calf, and wrist issues since joining Cincy. If Burrow undergoes surgery, he likely wouldn't return to action until mid-December.

Browning started seven games in 2023 while replacing an injured Burrow. He completed 70.4% of his passes and helped Cincinnati win four games.

The Bengals, who are off to a 2-0 start, haven't reached the playoffs the past two seasons.