Surgery Success: Joe Burrow Undergoes Wrist Procedure, Eyes Mid-May Return
Cincinnati, OH – March 8, 2025
Cincinnati Bengals star quarterback Joe Burrow has taken a crucial step toward full recovery after successfully undergoing a wrist procedure on his throwing hand. The surgery, performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles, was deemed a success, and Burrow is expected to be ready for a full return to football activities by mid-May.
The Bengals organization, along with Burrow’s representatives, confirmed the news early Saturday morning, stating that the procedure was routine and went without complications. Burrow, who has been battling a persistent wrist issue since late last season, opted for surgery after extensive evaluations with medical professionals.
As the Bengals prepare for the 2025 season, Burrow’s health remains a top priority, especially after injuries derailed his 2023 and 2024 campaigns. The Bengals front office and fans alike are optimistic about his rehabilitation, hoping that the former No. 1 overall pick will return stronger than ever.
The Road to Surgery: A Season of Pain and Perseverance
Burrow’s latest injury was a significant setback for both him and the Bengals, who have heavily relied on his leadership and precision passing. The quarterback first started experiencing discomfort in his right wrist in the latter half of the 2024 season. Despite the pain, Burrow fought through multiple games, attempting to keep Cincinnati’s playoff hopes alive.
Initially, the injury was classified as a minor sprain, but as the season progressed, the issue worsened. Burrow was seen wearing a brace during practice sessions and frequently shaking out his wrist during games. Team doctors and independent specialists monitored his condition closely, but despite non-surgical treatments such as rest, therapy, and pain management, the problem persisted.
By Week 15, the Bengals coaching staff and medical personnel decided that it was in Burrow’s best interest to shut him down for the remainder of the season. His absence was a significant blow to the Bengals, who ultimately missed the playoffs in a tightly contested AFC North race.
“It’s always tough to watch from the sidelines,” Burrow said in a statement after being ruled out. “I wanted to be out there with my teammates, but sometimes you have to make the right call for the long-term.”
The Decision to Undergo Surgery
After the season concluded, Burrow and the Bengals’ medical team consulted with top orthopedic specialists across the country. The consensus was that while non-invasive treatments had helped manage the pain, surgery would provide the best long-term solution.
Dr. Neal ElAttrache, a renowned orthopedic surgeon who has previously operated on star athletes like Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes, was chosen to perform the procedure. Burrow flew to Los Angeles in early March, where he underwent a thorough pre-surgical evaluation.
“We wanted to make sure this was the right decision,” said Bengals head coach Zac Taylor. “Joe’s long-term health is our priority, and after consulting with multiple experts, we felt surgery was the best course of action.”
The procedure took place on March 7 and was completed successfully within an hour. Dr. ElAttrache assured Burrow and the Bengals that there were no complications, and the quarterback would begin his rehabilitation process immediately.
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Burrow’s Recovery Timeline and Expectations
The Bengals medical staff has set a mid-May target for Burrow’s full return to football activities, giving him over two months to recover before the start of Organized Team Activities (OTAs).
The rehabilitation process will follow a structured plan:
Weeks 1-2: Rest and limited movement to allow healing
Weeks 3-6: Gradual mobility exercises and light throwing
Weeks 7-8: Increased throwing intensity, working with trainers
Week 9: Full football drills with the team
This timeline aligns with the Bengals’ offseason schedule, ensuring Burrow will be available for OTAs and minicamp ahead of the 2025 NFL season.
While wrist surgeries can be tricky, early reports suggest that Burrow’s procedure was minimally invasive and should not hinder his ability to regain full strength.
“Joe is a competitor,” said Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan. “If there’s anyone who’s going to attack rehab the right way and come back stronger, it’s him.”
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The Impact on the Bengals’ Offseason Plans
Burrow’s health has been a central focus for the Bengals’ front office, especially as they build their roster for the upcoming season. With their franchise quarterback expected to make a full recovery, Cincinnati can proceed confidently in shaping their offense.
General Manager Duke Tobin emphasized that while they always consider depth at quarterback, they have full faith in Burrow’s return. Backup QB Jake Browning, who stepped in during Burrow’s absence last season, remains on the roster, and the team may still look to add another arm for extra security.
Beyond the quarterback position, the Bengals are expected to bolster their offensive line in free agency and the draft, ensuring Burrow has better protection in 2025. Injuries and inconsistent play along the offensive line contributed to Burrow taking unnecessary hits, which may have exacerbated his wrist issue.
“We have to protect Joe,” said left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. “That’s priority number one. If we keep him upright, we know what kind of magic he can make happen.”
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Fans and Teammates React to the News
Bengals fans, known for their unwavering loyalty, have been vocal in their support for Burrow throughout his injury struggles. Social media was flooded with well-wishes following the news of his successful surgery.
“Can’t wait to see Joey B back in action,” one fan tweeted. “Take your time, heal up, and come back stronger!”
Several teammates also expressed their excitement about Burrow’s recovery, including star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who posted on Instagram:
“Bro about to be back better than ever. Y’all not ready.”
Defensive end Trey Hendrickson added, “We know what kind of leader Joe is. He’ll be back, and we’ll be ready to roll.”
The team’s confidence in Burrow’s return is a testament to his resilience and work ethic.
Burrow’s Mindset: Focused and Determined
Despite the setbacks of the past two seasons, Burrow remains as determined as ever to lead the Bengals back to Super Bowl contention. Since being drafted No. 1 overall in 2020, he has transformed the franchise, guiding Cincinnati to the Super Bowl in 2021 and consistently keeping them in the playoff hunt.
Burrow has always been known for his mental toughness, a trait that has helped him bounce back from injuries before. In 2020, he suffered a season-ending ACL tear but returned in 2021 to lead the Bengals to an AFC Championship. He’ll be looking to replicate that comeback story in 2025.
In a statement following the surgery, Burrow reassured Bengals fans:
“I appreciate all the support. Surgery went well, and I’m already focused on getting back to work. Can’t wait to get back out there with my guys.”
His words reflect the mindset of a player who refuses to let injuries define his career.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
With Burrow on track for a full recovery, the Bengals will enter the 2025 season with high expectations. The AFC remains a highly competitive conference, with teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Baltimore Ravens all vying for supremacy.
If Burrow returns at full strength, Cincinnati will once again be a serious contender. The team’s offensive core remains intact, with Chase, Tee Higgins, and Joe Mixon providing plenty of firepower. Defensively, the Bengals are expected to make key additions in the offseason to strengthen their roster.
Head coach Zac Taylor emphasized that the team will be cautious but optimistic about Burrow’s return.
“We know what Joe means to this franchise. We’re going to support him every step of the way and make sure he’s 100% before he’s back on the field.”
Final Thoughts: A New Chapter for Burrow and the Bengals
Joe Burrow’s successful wrist surgery marks the beginning of a critical chapter in his career. While injuries have been a frustrating obstacle, his resilience and commitment to the game continue to inspire teammates and fans alike.
As the Bengals prepare for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on Burrow’s recovery. If his rehab stays on track, Cincinnati will once again have one of the league’s best quarterbacks leading their charge.
For now, the Bengals and their fans can breathe a sigh of relief, knowing their franchise quarterback is on the road to recovery—and ready to return stronger than ever.
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