NFL writer sees Bengals QB Joe Burrow accomplishing his ultimate goal
In his last press conference before training camp starts up, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow revealed that his main goal has always stayed consistent through three years in the NFL. It's a goal that many players of his stature likely share."The top of the mountain is always the goal personally and team wise," Burrow said. […]
In his last press conference before training camp starts up, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow revealed that his main goal has always stayed consistent through three years in the NFL. It's a goal that many players of his stature likely share.
"The top of the mountain is always the goal personally and team wise," Burrow said. "So even coming into the league, that was my goal. And I wouldn't say that has changed year to year."
Being the best QB, player, and winning the Super Bowl are as lofty milestones as one can set. Right now, they all belong to Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, whom Burrow said was the best in the league. But just one season can change everything.
While Mahomes and the Chiefs are currently on the mountaintop, Sports Illustrated's Gilberto Manzano listed Burrow as the No. 1 offensive player who could define the 2023 season. Overtaking the Bengals' biggest AFC threat would go hand in hand with that.
"This is shaping up to be the year of Joe after the Bengals made roster upgrades that could get them to the mountaintop after two consecutive seasons of falling short. … Burrow made it clear he’s a top-two quarterback last season with his stellar performance. He might surpass Mahomes for the top spot in ’23." – SI's Gilberto Manzano
The 2022 Bengals ranks extremely high amongst the franchise's all-time greatest rosters, and the 2023 version is expected to be just as loaded.
The key improvement will be at offensive line, where Orlando Brown Jr., Mahomes' former left tackle, will now protect Burrow's blindside. A fierce competition at right tackle will fortify the best group of blockers Burrow has had in his career.
An argument for the Bengals surpassing the Chiefs can be based on this aspect alone. All four of their matchups since 2021 have come down to the final drive, each being decided by three points. Kansas City had the upper hand last time due to Cincinnati's o-line not being able to hold up amid injuries. Fortifying depth may end up becoming the difference.
Burrow improving in his own right also factors into this ranking, and having a healthy and normal offseason for the first time should allow him to start faster than he's ever done before.
It will take everything to go right for Burrow and the Bengals to supplant the reigning Super Bowl champions, but this year feels as right as any.
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Featured image via © Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK
