Playing quarterback in the NFL always comes with pressure, but some players face more scrutiny than others—especially when it comes to winning a Super Bowl. Once a quarterback secures a championship, some of that weight is lifted, as seen with Jalen Hurts and Patrick Mahomes.
However, for star quarterbacks who have yet to claim a title, the pressure can be overwhelming. Cincinnati Bengals’ standout Joe Burrow is no exception. As he heads into his sixth NFL season, the expectations will be high. Despite coming close in the past, he has yet to bring a Lombardi Trophy to Cincinnati.
Pressure is an inherent part of playing quarterback in the NFL, but some players are under more pressure than others. That’s just the way it goes, especially when it comes to winning a Super Bowl. Once you win one, some of that pressure is released, just look at Jalen Hurts, or Patrick Mahomes.
But, when you’re a star QB who hasn’t won a Super Bowl, that pressure can be immense, and Cincinnati Bengals star signal-caller Joe Burrow will likely be feeling some of that pressure next season. Burrow will be entering his sixth season in the league, and though he’s come close, he has yet to hoist a Lombardi Trophy for the city of Cincinnati.
Joe Burrow needs a Super Bowl victory to cement his legacy as an all-time great
As a result, Jeff Kerr of CBS Sports included Burrow in his list of the five quarterbacks under the most pressure to win a Super Bowl. Burrow ranked fifth, trailing Jared Goff, Dak Prescott, Lamar Jackson, and reigning NFL MVP Josh Allen.
Kerr explained Burrow’s placement on the list, highlighting the immense responsibility he carries for the Bengals:
“Why is there pressure on Burrow? The Bengals rely on him to perform at an elite level every week to secure wins, and when he’s merely ‘good,’ they struggle. Despite having a talented group of pass catchers, Cincinnati’s weak offensive line and inconsistent defense put even more on Burrow’s shoulders. He has to be excellent for them to compete.”
Kerr also pointed out that Burrow’s playoff success may depend on the Bengals improving their overall roster.
Burrow is widely regarded as one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks and appears to be on a Hall of Fame trajectory—provided he stays healthy. However, to solidify his place among the sport’s all-time greats, he will need to win a Super Bowl.
He came agonizingly close in Super Bowl 56, but the Bengals fell short against the Los Angeles Rams, losing 23-20. Burrow threw for 263 yards and a touchdown in the game, but it wasn’t enough.
For Burrow and Bengals fans, the hope is that he will get another shot at the championship soon. However, for that to happen, Cincinnati’s defense must improve significantly after struggling in recent seasons.
