Joe Burrow’s 2023 season has sparked significant debate in the NFL world, with many questioning how missing the playoffs will affect his legacy. Despite putting up stellar individual numbers, including nearly 5,000 passing yards and 43 touchdowns—both league-leading statistics—Burrow and his Cincinnati Bengals failed to secure a spot in the postseason. This has led some to reevaluate the narrative surrounding his career, especially given the high expectations placed on him as one of the league’s top quarterbacks.
Historically, Burrow has been known for his clutch playoff performances, including big wins over quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen. His ability to deliver in the postseason helped cement his reputation as one of the best, positioning him as a top contender behind Mahomes in the quarterback hierarchy. However, 2023 has added a wrinkle to this narrative. Despite remarkable individual stats, the Bengals fell short of playoff contention, which has led to questions about Burrow’s ability to lead his team when it matters most.
Some argue that the season shouldn’t tarnish Burrow’s standing. His performance was outstanding—his best statistical season to date, showcasing his ability to stay healthy and productive for a full 17-game slate after an injury-riddled 2022. His ability to put up such numbers in a season where the Bengals’ defense faltered is still a testament to his greatness. Moreover, Burrow’s resilience in bouncing back from an injury-laden season speaks volumes about his tenacity and long-term potential.
On the other hand, others believe Burrow’s narrative has shifted. Historically, Burrow’s reputation had been built on his postseason heroics. His 2021 playoff run to the Super Bowl and subsequent victories over high-profile quarterbacks had positioned him as a top-tier signal-caller in the league. But with the Bengals failing to make the playoffs in 2023—despite a season of personal statistical excellence—there are now concerns about his ability to consistently lead his team to the postseason. The lack of playoff appearances in three of his first five seasons, especially with the caliber of talent he has surrounding him, raises doubts about his ability to elevate the team when it counts the most.
The larger conversation now revolves around whether Burrow can continue to be viewed as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks without consistent playoff success. The NFL has evolved into a postseason-centric league, where legacy and reputation are largely shaped by the ability to perform in the playoffs. With Burrow now on the outside looking in, the narrative has started to shift from him being a “future legend” to one who still has much to prove on the biggest stage.
So, while Burrow’s 2023 season undeniably showcased his exceptional skill, it has also opened up new questions about his career trajectory. Can Burrow transcend the regular-season statistics and deliver in the postseason like his contemporaries Mahomes, Jackson, and Allen? The next few seasons will likely define whether Burrow’s narrative is remembered for his individual brilliance or if he can lead the Bengals back to the playoffs and ultimately to a championship. Only time will tell.
