“Thanksgiving return? Maybe. But not everyone’s buying it.” — That’s how NFL insider Adam Schefter summed up the uncertainty surrounding Joe Burrow’s long-awaited comeback for the Cincinnati Bengals.
After missing nearly the entire 2025 season with a turf toe injury, Burrow has finally returned to practice. His presence alone has given Bengals fans something they haven’t had in months —
But according to Schefter, patience might still be necessary.
“I personally think the more realistic target is the next week at Buffalo,” Schefter said, noting that while Burrow is pushing for a Thanksgiving matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, there are real questions about whether he’ll be physically ready for that high-intensity divisional game.
Originally, Schefter didn’t believe Burrow would play at all this year. The Bengals’ record — and Burrow’s slow recovery — made a late-season return seem unnecessary. “Their record was such, it wouldn’t be worth bringing him back,” Schefter admitted. But as the Bengals have fought to stay alive in the AFC North, that outlook has changed dramatically.
Now, the debate isn’t if Burrow will play — it’s when.
If Burrow’s recovery continues at its current pace, the Thanksgiving Day showdown with Baltimore would be the ultimate stage for a comeback. It’s one of the league’s marquee matchups, with division stakes and pride on the line. But Schefter’s “Buffalo timeline” — meaning a return the following week — might be the safer and smarter move.
The Bengals face a delicate balancing act. On one hand, Burrow’s leadership and poise could be the spark they need to stay in the playoff race. On the other, rushing him back could jeopardize both his health and the team’s long-term goals.
If the Bengals can take care of business this week against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Thanksgiving return becomes more plausible — and meaningful. But a loss could shift priorities toward 2026, making the decision to bring Burrow back less urgent.
Regardless, all eyes are now on Cincinnati’s practice reports. Burrow’s every movement will be dissected, every update analyzed. The franchise quarterback’s return isn’t just about one game — it’s about hope, direction, and whether the Bengals can still salvage a season that once seemed lost.
For now, Burrow’s comeback clock is ticking — and Thanksgiving might just be the moment the Bengals (and their fans) have been waiting for.
“He’s fighting to play — but the question is, should he?”
“Buffalo’s offense is sputtering, and some fans are wondering if Brian Daboll could be the cure for what ails them.”
The Buffalo Bills (6-3) have been struggling offensively, with their most recent lackluster performance coming in a 30-13 defeat to the Miami Dolphins. Despite facing one of the league’s worst defenses, Buffalo’s receivers failed to create any separation, and the offense was unable to get anything going through the first three quarters. It’s clear that the Bills’ offensive issues are becoming a growing concern.
However, today’s Buffalo Rumblings report quashed any hopes for those Bills fans calling for a change at offensive coordinator. Head coach Sean McDermott confirmed that Joe Brady would remain the team’s offensive coordinator through the end of the 2025 NFL season. Despite speculation that former offensive coordinator Brian Daboll could be brought back to help turn things around, McDermott swiftly dismissed the idea.
McDermott Shoots Down Daboll Return
When Daboll was fired as head coach of the New York Giants, rumors swirled about the possibility of a reunion with quarterback Josh Allen in Buffalo. McDermott wasted no time in shutting down those rumors, stating that he has confidence in Joe Brady and has no intention of bringing Daboll back to Buffalo.
“At this time, that is not something we are considering,” McDermott said when asked about the possibility of Daboll returning to Western New York.
The question remains: could Daboll have been the solution to Buffalo’s offensive struggles, or is the real issue something deeper? The Bills started the season strong but have since been cold, particularly in their loss to the Dolphins.
Dalton Kincaid’s Injury Puts More Pressure on Offense
Adding to Buffalo’s woes, tight end Dalton Kincaid, who has been one of Josh Allen’s most reliable targets this season, has been officially labeled “week-to-week” after suffering a hamstring injury in the Dolphins’ loss. Kincaid had been a standout, recording 29 catches for 448 yards and four touchdowns—leading the team in both receiving yards and touchdowns this year. His absence could further strain the already struggling offense.
As the Bills continue to deal with a variety of injuries, including to key players like Kincaid, the offense will need to find a way to regain its early-season form. While McDermott has expressed confidence in his current coaching staff, fans are left to wonder if a change in offensive philosophy or leadership might be what’s needed to reignite Buffalo’s high-powered attack.
More Updates on Bills’ Injuries and Roster Moves
As the Bills face a series of injuries, including to key offensive players, the team is also adding new faces to the practice squad. Stay tuned for updates as Buffalo looks to address its depth and find solutions to its current offensive struggles.