NFL vice president Mike North labeled Joe Burrow a league game-changer during 2026 schedule-release discussions. North confirmed the NFL is strategically placing Bengals games in late-season slots to maximize Burrow's star power.

North said, "(Burrow) is a game-changer in this league. There's no real hesitation that we talked about to save some of the big ones for late in the season," according to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com.

"Wave a magic wand, maybe move the Kansas City game up a little earlier … I'm sure FOX maybe would prefer that KC-Cincy game a little bit earlier."

The move signals total confidence in the quarterback as a primary ratings driver.

Burrow describes the Bengals roster as the most talented group he has played with since he entered the league in 2020. They have strengthened the defensive line and secondary, this off season.

Last season, the three-time Pro Bowler was limited to only eight games, before he was injured, which affected Cincinnati's performance. Yet, the QB still finished with 17 touchdowns and earned another Pro Bowl appearance.

According to Bengals Wire, the NFL appears to view Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals as a team worth spotlighting, as they are entertaining to watch and also of the value they bring in terms of ratings and the league’s broader growth.

Joe Burrow Faces Important Decision After Injury-Plagued Bengals Season

Joe Burrow, who suffered a turf toe injury in 2025, is adjusting to his cleats and overall preparation with a hope to avoid similar issues moving forward.

Burrow is currently weighing whether to keep the carbon fiber plate in his cleat next season after adjusting to it last year.

According to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com, "It's like why not? It won't be as stiff. We'll see where that goes. I'm trying a lot of things out right now to see what works best for me," said Burrow.

Although the plate was meant to prevent the injury, he didn't have full mobility at that time.

There really isn't a reason to remove the feature if Burrow is already accustomed to it and doesn't believe it will negatively affect his game, per Chris Roling of Bengal Wire.

What are your views on the Mike North's commnents? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Rudra Dubey