Joe Burrow, Bengals will find out if their turf toe fears are confirmed by trusted foot specialist

A second opinion is on the way for Burrow’s injury.

John Sheeran — Cincinnati Bengals News Writer
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Sep 14, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) enters the field before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Paycor Stadium.
© Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has a turf toe injury, and the severity level could be pretty high.

Per multiple reports from Sunday night, the initial concern is that Burrow suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury. Burrow would need surgery and be sidelined for at least three months if Grade 3 is confirmed.

Confirmation of the severity level has yet to be determined, but it could come as early as today. Cincinnati and Burrow are putting their trust in one specialist to determine just how bad the injury really is.

Robert Anderson, MD will examine Burrow’s turf toe injury

Burrow received an MRI immediately following his toe injury during the Bengals’ 31-27 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Images from the MRI are being sent to Dr. Robert Anderson for review.

Dr. Anderson is the associate team physician of the Green Bay Packers while also the co-chairman of both the NFL Musculoskeletal Committee, and the Foot and Ankle Subcommittee of the NFL Injury and Safety Panel.

Consulting Dr. Anderson is in Burrow’s best interest as a second opinion on the matter could mean the difference between playing in October and playing in December. Former Bengals wide receiver Andrew Hawkins shared he sought Dr. Anderson’s expertise after suffering an ankle injury right before the 2013 season and learned he would not have to have season-ending surgery. He ended up playing eight games that year.

Hawkins isn’t the only former player who vouches for Dr. Anderson. Legger Douzable, who played 10 years, dealt with a similar situation and also avoided major surgery thanks to the Dr.’s advice.

This doesn’t mean Burrow will receive the same fate, but the Bengals are going to a reliable source to confirm just how bad his toe injury really is. Any recovery timeline will be officially determined after hearing his review.

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