The Cincinnati Bengals are entering a make-or-break season that feels focussed is now on results. At the center of it is Joe Burrow, with this season possibly shaping the rest of his NFL career. After missing the playoffs for 3 seasons, the Bengals are out for a deep playoff run.

That pressure is not just outside noise. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, this is a key year for the quarterback and the team.

“This is considered to be a hugely significant season for Joe Burrow and his future in Cincinnati,” Schefter said. “The Bengals had to give Burrow and the franchise the best chance to win now.”

Since their last Super Bowl run in 2022, ending in a loss to the Los Angeles Rams, the Bengals are 24-27 (across the 2023, 2024, and 2025 seasons). That record maintains the pressure to reach the postseason, despite having one of the league’s top quarterbacks.

Cincinnati made a bold move recently, trading its No. 10 overall pick to the New York Giants for Dexter Lawrence II. The Bengals are going for a proven veteran instead of waiting for a rookie, reflecting a clear push to fix issues on defense.

Burrow’s own comments last season added to the discussion. He admitted he was not having fun at one point, though he later clarified that it was not directly about the team. Still, such comments come under the public eye when the team is unable to produce results.

Cincinnati’s acquisition of Lawrence signals an aggressive design to succeed. If the Bengals are unable to make the postseason, discussions surrounding Burrow's trade may intensify.

Teams that could be in the mix if Burrow’s situation changes

Bleacher Report has outlined possible landing spots for the QB if things don’t work out in Cincinnati. The report lists five teams that could target Joe Burrow.

The Arizona Cardinals look like the top option because of their quarterback situation and projected $155 million in cap space. That gives them enough room to build around a top player. With starting QB Jacoby Brissett being sacked 43 times in the 2025 season, the Cardinals could find salvation in Burrow.

Second on the list are the Atlanta Falcons, who are also in a strong position, with over $148 million in projected cap space. There are still questions at quarterback, with Michael Penix Jr. injured, which could push them to look at a bigger move.

At No. 3 and No. 4, Bleacher Report listed the Minnesota Vikings and New Orleans Saints.

The Vikings already have a strong offense and could still look for a long-term option at quarterback, while the Saints have improved their offensive line and could also explore that position if needed.

The New York Jets are fifth on the list. The Jets may have the best trade setup. With multiple first-round picks in the 2027 draft, they have the assets to make a strong offer, possibly trading a few picks for the veteran Burrow.

Cincinnati has taken steps to compete right away, but the outcome will define the bigger picture. If results don’t improve, the conversation will move from the roster to Joe Burrow and what comes next for him.

Read more at the Cincinnati Bengals Community!

Written by

Anjali Thakur

Edited by

Surjo Roy