Joe Burrow speaks cautiously about the playoff hopes of a 3-6 Bengals team

Joe Burrow remains optimistic about the Cincinnati Bengals NFL playoff chances, even as many consider the 2025 season to be at risk.

With a 3-6 record, the franchise faces significant challenges, but Burrow believes they can still fight for the top of the AFC North.

Joe Burrow return and the fight for the division

After a big toe injury in Week 2, the Bengals had to rely on temporary solutions.

Backup Jake Browning saw limited action, and later veteran Joe Flacco took over as the starting quarterback, leading the team to an important victory over the Steelers.

However, the team’s defense remained an issue, leaving them with only three wins before the bye week.

It was then that Joe Burrow returned to practice following surgery to repair ligaments and a three-month recovery period. His return sparked a wave of optimism within the franchise.

“Our division is very open. Pittsburgh is 5-4. We play them this week. We still have a lot ahead of us. I think we’ll be in the fight until the end,” Burrow told the press, hinting that the Bengals still have real chances to make the playoffs.

#Bengals QB Joe Burrow on if they are a playoff team:

“Our division is wide-open. We play Pittsburgh this week. Everything is in front of us. It’s very rare our division looks like this, but it does this year.”

Burrow says the only realistic path for them is winning the… https://t.co/5LKSbYHvHV pic.twitter.com/QTApt6M4CS

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 10, 2025

Playoff possibilities and the division goal

Joe Burrow emphasized that while the team can still reach the playoffs as a wildcard mathematically, their true goal is to win the division.

The AFC North has remained unpredictable, with the Steelers and Ravens alternating wins and losses, keeping Cincinnati aspirations alive.

Burrow is confident that his leadership and chemistry with Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and other receivers will allow the Bengals to finish the season strong.

Despite the difficulties, Joe Burrow makes it clear that hope is not lost. His return to the field not only revitalizes the team but also injects confidence into the fan base.

With the division so competitive, every game will be crucial, and the Bengals rely on their star to keep the playoff dream alive.

Joe Burrow, with his experience and determination, is poised to be the key piece for Cincinnati to turn an uncertain start into a surprising season finish.