Bengals Struggle Without Burrow: Trade Talks Heat Up

Cincinnati, OH — The Cincinnati Bengals have dropped three straight games, continuing to struggle since losing franchise quarterback Joe Burrow to a toe injury in Week 2. Currently sitting at 2-3, the Bengals are in dire need of a solution to keep their postseason hopes alive.

Head coach Zac Taylor has relied on backup quarterback Jake Browning, but the team’s offensive performance has been disappointing. Browning has thrown six touchdowns and eight interceptions in his four games as starter. With Burrow’s return still months away, speculation about potential trades has surfaced.

A recent report from Pro Football Network highlighted quarterback Kirk Cousins as a possible target for the Bengals. Cousins, who is completing his second season of a four-year, $180 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons, was benched in favor of Michael Penix Jr., prompting questions about his future with the team.

If the Falcons are willing to negotiate, they might agree to absorb part of Cousins’ contract to facilitate a trade with Cincinnati. The Bengals would need to offer sufficient compensation to bring in Cousins, who, while not at his peak, could provide the spark the struggling offense needs.

With Burrow expected to be sidelined until late December, the urgency for Cincinnati to make moves is clear. Taylor remains committed to his playcalling despite the team’s challenges. In a recent press conference, he acknowledged the offensive issues, saying, “We score three points in three games in the first half. I totally understand that.” He expressed focus on enhancing opportunities for the team’s playmakers as they work through their difficulties.

While Browning has struggled, Taylor has not confirmed any changes at the quarterback position, increasing the pressure on the Bengals to use this time wisely. Without significant improvement, the 2025 season may become a lost cause for Cincinnati.