The Bengals and Chiefs have given fans some of the most intense, unforgettable games in recent NFL history. And right now, Joe Burrow is already hoping for more.

However, last season was a painful reminder of how fragile success can be. Both teams finished 6-11, and both missed the playoffs. Moreover, injuries derailed both their star quarterbacks. Yet Burrow is already planning his next interaction with the Chiefs in a clip posted by Ari Meirov on X.

“We’ll have a really good team, obviously. They’ll have a really good team,” Burrow said this week. “We play them in Week 14 or 15. So that will be the one leading up to the playoffs. Hopefully, we get two shots at them.”

Joe Burrow has reasons to feel optimistic as the Bengals drew one of the NFL’s somewhat easier schedules in 2026, as per NFL.com. Only the Steelers, Jaguars, and Texans won 12 or more games last year among their opponents.

The Bengals will face both Jacksonville and Houston early, and if they handle business, they could roll into that mid-December showdown against Kansas City with some real momentum.

However, beating the Chiefs, even once, is never simple. The Bengals pulled the short end of the stick back in 2024 when the two teams met. Also, Mahomes is expected to return fully healthy after tearing his ACL and LCL. 

The Chiefs have also added 2025 Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III to an already dangerous offense. That move gives Mahomes another weapon and should ease his workload.

But Burrow is confident in his team and his chances of getting to the playoffs.

Joe Burrow Gives His Honest Take on the Bengals’ 2026 Roster 

Speaking to reporters at the Bengals' practice facility on Wednesday, the Bengals QB declared his true feelings for the 2026 roster. And after three straight seasons without a playoff appearance, that take carries weight.

"I think this is the most talented roster that we've had since I've been here. We got guys that work really hard,” he said. “We brought in guys who have been there and done that.”

The Bengals overhauled their defense this offseason as they traded for Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, signed edge rusher Boye Mafe to a big contract, and added safety Bryan Cook. And Joe Burrow made it clear he was impressed by the front office’s aggression.

Moreover, the offensive line returns fully intact. That should help Burrow stay healthy after last year’s turf toe injury. With Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase still on the roster, the Bengals now have one of the more complete teams in the AFC.

What are your thoughts on Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes’ upcoming clash?

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Written by

Zaid Quraishi

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi