Joe Burrow entered the Bengals' Week 2 matchup against the Texans with plenty of questions surrounding his health. The quarterback had experienced back tightness following Cincinnati's season opener, raising concerns about his availability. However, Burrow played through those concerns and helped the Bengals secure a 20-6 victory.

The situation took an unusual turn after the game. Burrow was caught joking with Texans defenders that one of their hits had popped his rib back into place. Initially, everyone assumed the quarterback was simply having some fun after a physical encounter.

However, newly released sideline footage suggests Burrow might have been serious. He explained that he actually felt much better after the collision. Ja'Marr Chase, standing alongside him, even suggested that Houston's defense had adjusted his entire back.

It certainly isn't how Cincinnati would have planned to address Burrow's discomfort. The Bengals don't want their franchise quarterback taking unnecessary punishment, especially given his injury history. Nevertheless, they'll welcome the possibility that one of the five hits he absorbed helped relieve his back tightness.

Joe Burrow Feels the Bengals Can Win It All This Season

Burrow's confidence extends beyond his health and Cincinnati's unbeaten start. Before the season, the quarterback expressed his belief that the Bengals could finally compete for a Super Bowl. He even admitted he could feel something special developing in his bones.

Cincinnati's front office backed those ambitions with significant offseason investments. The additions of Dexter Lawrence, Jonathan Allen, Boye Mafe and Bryan Cook have transformed a defense that previously struggled. Those improvements have already helped Cincinnati secure victories over Tampa Bay and Houston.

The offense still has room to improve, particularly given the expectations surrounding Burrow and his receiving corps. However, the revamped defense has provided Cincinnati with something it lacked previously: greater balance.

With two victories already secured, Burrow and the Bengals have an encouraging foundation for their championship ambitions.

Written by

Joseph Nithin