When the Cincinnati Bengals secured Joe Burrow as the first overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, expectations were sky-high. Not only has Burrow met these lofty expectations, but he has arguably eclipsed them, shaping up to be one of the most pivotal draft picks in recent NFL history. His journey from a promising rookie to a franchise quarterback demonstrates why he is often considered the centerpiece of the Bengals’ resurgence.
According to Pro Football Focus, Joe Burrow has not only performed well but has topped the list of career grades among his draft class, surpassing even his former LSU teammate and now Minnesota Vikings star, Justin Jefferson. This accolade highlights Burrow’s exceptional impact and consistency since entering the league.
Joe Burrow’s Journey from Setback to Super Bowl Contender
Burrow’s entry into the NFL was nothing short of dramatic. His rookie season was cut short by a torn ACL after just 10 games. Despite this, he managed to throw for 2,688 yards, 13 touchdowns, and five interceptions, completing 65.3% of his passes with a passer rating of 89.8. This performance was more than just promising; it was a declaration of his resilience and skill.
The following year, Burrow made a spectacular return, leading the NFL with a completion rate of 70.4% and throwing for 4,611 yards and 34 touchdowns. His outstanding play earned him a passer rating of 108.3 and took the Bengals to the Super Bowl, though they narrowly lost to the Los Angeles Rams.
Proving His Worth Among NFL Elites
By 2022, Burrow had firmly established himself as a top-tier quarterback, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. He finished the season with impressive stats: 4,475 yards, 35 touchdowns, and only 12 interceptions, achieving a passer rating of 100.8 and finishing fourth in MVP voting.
His performance has not only been a testament to his skill but also to his role as a leader on and off the field. However, the 2023 season proved challenging for Burrow.
He battled through a calf issue early in the season and just as he was regaining form, a wrist injury in Week 11 sidelined him for the remainder of the year. Despite these setbacks, he managed to accumulate 2,309 yards, 15 touchdowns, and a completion rate of 66.8% in just 10 games.
Joe Burrow gets a HUGE ovation #Bengals pic.twitter.com/1cMnur7Rwp
— Enter the Jungle Show (@CinBengalsTalk) April 12, 2024
The 2024 Season and Beyond
As the 2024 season approaches, the spotlight is once again on Joe Burrow. Can he overcome the physical setbacks of the previous seasons and lead the Bengals to their long-awaited Super Bowl victory? In a competitive AFC, featuring powerhouses like the two-time defending champion Kansas City Chiefs, the road won’t be easy.
Yet, if anyone has shown the resilience and skill to rise to the challenge, it’s Burrow. As we continue to track his career, the excitement around his potential to redefine the Bengals’ legacy remains high. With a blend of skill, leadership, and unyielding determination, Joe Burrow is not just playing the game—he’s setting the pace for a new era in Cincinnati football.
Source: NFL Analysis
