CINCINNATI, Ohio — The return of Joe Burrow to practice this week took his teammate and top receiver, Ja”Marr Chase, by surprise. Burrow had surgery for turf toe just two months ago, making his swift return to the field unexpected.
During a press conference on Thursday, Chase shared his astonishment at Burrow”s rapid comeback, stating, “I didn”t know he was practicing. I was surprised. I just seen him putting his stuff on. I didn”t know what was going on.”
When asked whether he thought Burrow”s aggressive recovery timeline was “a little crazy,” Chase”s response was candid and revealing. He emphasized that he respects Burrow”s competitive spirit, saying, “I think his personality makes him unique. The way he approaches the game makes him crazy. How much he loves the game makes him crazy. That”s how much passion he has behind it. And nothing”s wrong with that. He just wants to win. And you know, you need people around you like that.”
This perspective sheds light on Burrow”s mentality as an elite athlete. His determination extends beyond personal goals; it is about setting a standard that elevates the entire Cincinnati Bengals organization. For players like Burrow, being sidelined is not merely a physical struggle, but a challenge to their competitive identity.
Chase noted the quick nature of Burrow”s recovery, remarking, “I didn”t expect it to be so fast. When I seen him getting dressed for practice, my first thought was, I just remember telling y”all, like, “He need to go get ready to come back,” and he”s already back. So it happens fast. Blink of an eye, I can say that.”
Previously, Chase had advised Burrow to take his time recovering from a calf injury earlier in the season, but he seems to have embraced Burrow”s current approach. “I ain”t gonna say nothing. I ain”t mad about what he”s doing, how he”s doing it at the end of the day,” Chase concluded.
This situation not only highlights Burrow”s remarkable commitment but also the strong bond he shares with Chase, a relationship built on mutual respect despite differing views on recovery timelines.
