Posted on Dec 31

Burrow calls for changes as Bengals aim for late-season win against Browns

Posted Dec 31, 2025

#browns #joe-burrow #bengals #coach-speak

The Cincinnati Bengals find themselves at a crossroads as quarterback Joe Burrow calls for change following a disappointing season.

Why it matters: The Bengals, with a current record of 6-10, are facing the prospect of missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year. This situation not only impacts the team's immediate future but also raises questions about the long-term direction of the franchise.

After making a remarkable playoff run in 2021 and returning to the AFC Championship Game the following year, the Bengals have struggled this season, significantly hampered by Burrow’s turf toe injury that sidelined him for nine games.
Burrow's return has yielded mixed results, with three wins in five starts since November 27, highlighting both his value to the team and the need for improvement across the roster.

What’s new: In recent statements, Burrow has emphasized the urgent need for change within the organization.

"We don't want to be in the spot we are in now, so something's got to change," Burrow said, indicating that adjustments may be necessary in player performance or through new acquisitions.
He underscored the importance of innovation in strategy, suggesting that traditional approaches may no longer suffice: "What we've been doing hasn't worked the last couple of years. We have to think outside the box and get creative about where we go from here."

Yes, but: The challenge lies not just in identifying problems, but also in implementing effective solutions.

Head coach Zac Taylor, while under scrutiny, remains supportive of Burrow and emphasizes teamwork. "I'm not trying to show anybody. We're all in this together," he stated, reflecting a united front amid pressure to perform.
The success of the upcoming offseason will largely depend on how well the Bengals can balance retaining core talent while also bringing in impactful players.

What to watch: As the Bengals prepare to face the Cleveland Browns in their season finale, all eyes will be on whether they can secure a three-game winning streak to end the year on a positive note.

A victory could provide momentum heading into the offseason and alleviate some concerns about player morale and the coaching staff’s stability.
However, failing to clinch a win could further amplify the calls for change and intensify scrutiny on the front office's decision-making.

The bottom line: The Bengals must navigate these complex dynamics carefully, as Burrow's leadership and the team's strategic direction will play crucial roles in determining their future success.

With a talented roster and a franchise quarterback at the helm, the potential for resurgence exists, but it hinges on a commitment to evolution and growth.
As Burrow noted, the team's focus must shift toward playing championship-caliber football, which will require concerted efforts from both players and management alike.

Burrow calls for changes as Bengals aim for late-season win against Browns

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 31, 2025

The Cincinnati Bengals find themselves at a crossroads as quarterback Joe Burrow calls for change following a disappointing season.

After making a remarkable playoff run in 2021 and returning to the AFC Championship Game the following year, the Bengals have struggled this season, significantly hampered by Burrow’s turf toe injury that sidelined him for nine games.

Burrow's return has yielded mixed results, with three wins in five starts since November 27, highlighting both his value to the team and the need for improvement across the roster.

What’s new: In recent statements, Burrow has emphasized the urgent need for change within the organization.

"We don't want to be in the spot we are in now, so something's got to change," Burrow said, indicating that adjustments may be necessary in player performance or through new acquisitions.

He underscored the importance of innovation in strategy, suggesting that traditional approaches may no longer suffice: "What we've been doing hasn't worked the last couple of years. We have to think outside the box and get creative about where we go from here."

Yes, but: The challenge lies not just in identifying problems, but also in implementing effective solutions.

Head coach Zac Taylor, while under scrutiny, remains supportive of Burrow and emphasizes teamwork. "I'm not trying to show anybody. We're all in this together," he stated, reflecting a united front amid pressure to perform.

The success of the upcoming offseason will largely depend on how well the Bengals can balance retaining core talent while also bringing in impactful players.

A victory could provide momentum heading into the offseason and alleviate some concerns about player morale and the coaching staff’s stability.

However, failing to clinch a win could further amplify the calls for change and intensify scrutiny on the front office's decision-making.

The bottom line: The Bengals must navigate these complex dynamics carefully, as Burrow's leadership and the team's strategic direction will play crucial roles in determining their future success.

With a talented roster and a franchise quarterback at the helm, the potential for resurgence exists, but it hinges on a commitment to evolution and growth.

As Burrow noted, the team's focus must shift toward playing championship-caliber football, which will require concerted efforts from both players and management alike.