The Cincinnati Bengals have had a rough start to the 2023 season. Joe Burrow has not been healthy and it has led to a lot of questions about the quarterback situation. With him reaggravating the calf last week, there is a chance that backup quarterback Jake Browning will take some snaps. On Thursday, the Patriots snatched up Will Grier leaving the Bengals with no other quarterbacks on the roster. They may have to turn to a shocking player if the impossible happens, running back Joe Mixon.
Cincinnati Bengals Joe Mixon Emergency Quarterback?
Mixon did throw a touchdown pass in their Super Bowl appearance and has been spotted practicing with the quarterbacks during practice this week. While he does not have any experience at the quarterback position in college or the pros, the Bengals are hoping that it doesn’t come to that. It would be highly unlikely but still possible that Burrow and Browning both go down with injuries. However, because Burrow is already injured, it might be more likely than we think. The team is preparing for anything as they need to pick up a win.
The Dreaded 0-2 Start
Since the playoffs expanded to seven teams in each conference only one team has made the playoffs after starting 0-2. That team was the Cincinnati Bengals a couple of years ago. This team starts out slow and then comes on later in the season. 2023 feels different though. The Burrow injury is concerning as it will likely linger for the entire year. The AFC is a gauntlet with many teams fighting for playoff spots. It isn’t impossible but the team needs to start winning right now.
Will the Cincinnati Bengals have to turn to Joe Mixon this week at quarterback? As a fan, it would be fun to see (outside of the fact that injuries have to happen) but the Bengals are hoping that Burrow is under center when they face the Rams on Monday night.