Could the Bengals' New QB Be the Key After Burrow's Injury?

The Cincinnati Bengals have signed former Buffalo Bills quarterback Mike White to bolster their depth following Joe Burrow's injury, which will keep the star player sidelined for approximately three months. With Burrow recovering from turf toe and surgery ahead, the Bengals are not only retaining Jake Browning as their starter but have also added White, along with Sean Clifford, to their practice squad as potential insurance.

Last updated: 09 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Joe Burrow is expected to miss three months due to turf toe surgery.
• Mike White has signed with the Bengals after being a free agent.
• Jake Browning will remain the starting quarterback in Burrow's absence.
• Sean Clifford joins the practice squad as a potential backup option.
• White has a varied NFL career, with 15 appearances and seven starts.

Joe Burrow's Injury: What Happened?

During the Bengals' recent 31-27 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, Burrow sustained a turf toe injury. This particular condition often results from a sprain or tear to the ligaments that support the big toe, commonly caused by excessive pushing off while running. The diagnosis necessitates surgery, with an expected recovery timeline of around three months, which means Burrow's absence will significantly impact the team's performance in the upcoming games.

The Bengals' Quarterback Situation

With Burrow out, the Bengals have made a strategic decision to keep Jake Browning as their starting quarterback. Browning showcased his capabilities by leading the team to victory over the Jaguars, which appears to have earned him the trust of the coaching staff. The coaching staff's confidence in him suggests they believe he can manage the team effectively during Burrow's recovery.

Introducing Mike White

Mike White, previously with the Buffalo Bills, has been signed to the Bengals' practice squad as a backup option. White's journey in the NFL has been quite eventful. After being drafted by the Dallas Cowboys, he spent time with the New York Jets, where he gained recognition for stepping up in critical situations. His tenure with the Bills was less successful, leading to his release after the final roster cuts, but the Bengals see potential in him as a depth player.

Sean Clifford: A Local Connection

Alongside White, the Bengals have also brought in Sean Clifford, who has a unique connection to Cincinnati. Having attended St. Xavier High School in the area, Clifford's familiarity with the Bengals' environment could play a crucial role as he competes for a spot on the active roster. Although his NFL experience is minimal—only one completed pass—his previous connections to the team and local community might work in his favour.

Mike White's NFL Career Overview

White has an extensive background, having made 15 appearances in the NFL, with seven starts. He has completed 61.4% of his passes, accumulating 2,247 yards, nine touchdowns, and 13 interceptions. His most recent outing was with the Bills last season, where he struggled in the season finale, completing only three of 11 passes for 28 yards. This inconsistency raises questions about whether he can effectively step in if needed.

Challenges Ahead for White

Despite being a seasoned player, Mike White faces significant hurdles to earn playing time in Cincinnati. Currently, he is positioned behind backup Brett Rypien on the depth chart. The coaching staff has indicated a strong preference for Browning, which may limit White's opportunities to showcase his skills on the field. The path to becoming the starter is fraught with challenges, especially with Browning's recent performance.

The Bengals' Future Without Burrow

The Bengals face a critical phase as they navigate the season without their star quarterback. The team's success will largely depend on how well Browning can manage the offence and maintain the momentum built during Burrow's tenure. While the addition of White and Clifford provides depth, the real question will be whether they can step up if Browning falters or if further injuries occur.

What This Means for the Bengals' Season

The loss of Burrow for an extended period could significantly impact the Bengals' aspirations this season. As the team adjusts its strategy and playbook, the focus will be on maintaining competitiveness. The support around Browning will be crucial, including the performance of the offensive line and the receiving corps, to ensure the team remains in contention for playoff spots.

Comparing the New Signings

When assessing the recent signings of White and Clifford, it's essential to consider their respective experiences and potential contributions:

• Mike White: Experienced with multiple teams, but recent performance has been inconsistent.
• Sean Clifford: Familiar with the local area and could bring fresh energy, but lacks significant NFL experience.

Looking Ahead

The Bengals will need to develop a robust game plan that utilises the strengths of Browning while providing support from their new additions. The upcoming games will be pivotal in determining the direction of their season and how effectively they can adapt to life without Burrow.

FAQs

How long will Joe Burrow be out due to injury?

Joe Burrow is expected to miss approximately three months due to surgery for his turf toe injury. This timeline could affect his return for the remainder of the season.

Who will be the starting quarterback for the Bengals now?

Jake Browning has been named the starting quarterback for the Bengals in Burrow's absence, following his performance in the win against the Jaguars.

What are the stats for Mike White in his NFL career?

Mike White has made 15 appearances in the NFL, with seven starts. He has completed 61.4% of his passes for 2,247 yards, nine touchdowns, and 13 interceptions.

Why did the Bengals sign Sean Clifford?

Sean Clifford was signed due to his local connections and familiarity with the Bengals, despite having minimal NFL experience. He could provide valuable support if needed.

What are the potential challenges for the Bengals without Burrow?

The Bengals may struggle to maintain their competitiveness without Burrow, relying heavily on their backup quarterback and overall team performance to navigate the season effectively.

The upcoming weeks will reveal how well the Bengals can adapt to this challenge. As they adjust their strategy and player roles, maintaining a competitive edge will be crucial for their playoff aspirations. #CincinnatiBengals #JoeBurrow #NFLUpdates