how long will joe burrow be out for

Joe Burrow suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury that required surgery. He is expected to be out for at least three months, which puts a possible return around mid to late December, approximately Week 15 or 16 of the NFL season. However, this three-month recovery timeline is considered very optimistic. It could take longer for him to return, especially considering the severity of a Grade 3 turf toe involving complete ligament tears. His return also depends on the Bengals' playoff contention status — if they fall out of playoff contention, they might opt to keep him out for his long-term health. Until then, backup quarterbacks are starting for the Bengals as Burrow recovers.