Joe Burrow's Knee Injury and Amazing Recovery Process

Introduction

The NFL world was shocked when Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow went down with a serious knee injury during a game against the Washington Football Team in November 2020. Burrow, the #1 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, had been putting together an impressive rookie campaign before suffering the season-ending injury.

Burrow tore his ACL and MCL, in addition to suffering other structural damage to his knee. It was a devastating blow to a promising young quarterback and to a Bengals team that was just starting to turn things around. However, Burrow has approached his rehab with determination and optimism, and all signs point to him making a full recovery.

Details of the Injury

The injury occurred in the third quarter of the Bengals' 20-9 loss to Washington. Burrow took a big hit from two Washington defenders right after throwing a pass, with his left leg getting bent awkwardly underneath him. Burrow stayed down on the field in obvious pain before being carted off. An MRI later revealed the extent of the damage.

In addition to the ACL and MCL tears, Burrow's injury included a partial tear of the posterior cruciate ligament and other structural issues. It was about as bad as a knee injury can be for an NFL quarterback. Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the surgeon who operated on Burrow's knee, said it was one of the more significant knee injuries he had seen.

Surgery and Rehab Process

Burrow underwent successful reconstructive surgery just over a week after suffering the injury. Dr. ElAttrache repaired the torn ligaments and addressed all the accompanying damage. The procedure went as planned, and Burrow was eager to start his recovery right away.

The initial rehab focused on regaining range of motion and reducing swelling and inflammation. From there, Burrow worked on gradually rebuilding strength and stability in the injured knee. Physical therapy sessions focused on mobility, flexibility, balance, and agility. Burrow documented much of his rehab on social media to update fans on his progress.

By all accounts, Burrow attacked his rehab with intensity and determination. He progressed quickly through the various stages without any major setbacks. His youth, good health, positive attitude, and work ethic all contributed to such a smooth recovery.

Ahead of Schedule

Burrow's rehab went so well that he was able to participate on a limited basis in the Bengals' offseason activities just 6 months after surgery. That is an exceptionally quick return for such a serious knee injury. Burrow did not do any full team drills, but his participation in individual work was a great sign.

Heading into training camp in the summer of 2021, Burrow said his knee felt great and he had full confidence in it. He was cleared to participate fully in practice right from the start of camp, well ahead of the initial timetables following his injury. Burrow showed no limitations with his mobility or throwing mechanics throughout camp.

Return to Action

Burrow was firmly entrenched as the Bengals' starting QB heading into Week 1 of the 2021 season. Any concerns about him not being ready to return were quickly put to rest. Burrow threw for 261 yards and 2 touchdowns in Cincinnati's overtime win over the Minnesota Vikings in his first game back.

While he understandably showed some rust early on, Burrow quickly regained his impressive pre-injury form. He passed for 971 yards and 8 touchdowns in the first three games of the season, proving he was all the way back. The Bengals got off to a hot start, and Burrow's play was a huge reason why.

Burrow elevated his game even more as the 2021 season went along. He finished with 4,611 passing yards and 34 touchdowns while leading the Bengals to an AFC North title. His remarkable comeback season culminated in a Super Bowl appearance, where the Bengals ultimately lost to the Los Angeles Rams.

Lasting Effects?

Does the knee injury seem to have any lingering effects on Burrow's mobility or performance? The answer appears to be no. Burrow showed terrific poise and pocket presence in 2021, maneuvering well to avoid sacks and buy time. He also was willing and able to take off and run when needed.

Passing stats and game film indicate Burrow is playing just as well as he did pre-injury, if not better. His technique, accuracy, arm strength, and decision-making all look sharp. He once again looks fully capable of developing into an elite NFL quarterback. The knee does not seem to be limiting him whatsoever.

Outlook Moving Forward

Joe Burrow provided a tremendous inspirational story with his quick comeback from a devastating injury. He worked extremely hard during rehab and did not suffer any setbacks along the way. That hard work has clearly paid off, as Burrow has returned every bit as good as before, if not better.

Barring any future issues with the knee, there is no reason to expect Burrow's career trajectory to be derailed. The Bengals have a franchise quarterback in place to build around for years to come. With weapons like Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Joe Mixon, Cincinnati's offense could be one of the NFL's best for the foreseeable future.

Joe Burrow has overcome the biggest challenge an NFL player can face. His love for the game and determination to be great drove hisamazing comeback. Now fully healthy again, the sky remains the limit for this talented young star.

FAQs

What exactly was Joe Burrow's knee injury?

Burrow suffered a torn ACL, torn MCL, partial PCL tear, and other structural damage to his left knee against Washington in November 2020.

How long did Burrow's recovery and rehab take?

Burrow had surgery within 2 weeks of the injury. He was able to return to limited practice after just 6 months and was fully cleared for training camp about 9 months post-injury.

How did Burrow perform in his return from the injury?

Burrow showed no ill effects from the knee injury upon his return in 2021. He passed for 4,611 yards and 34 TDs while leading the Bengals to the Super Bowl.

Has Burrow's mobility been impacted by the knee injury?

Burrow's speed, agility, and pocket movement appear unaffected. He is willing and capable of running when necessary post-injury.

What are the expectations for Burrow moving forward?

With his knee fully healed, Burrow is expected to continue developing into an elite QB and lead a dangerous Bengals offense for years to come.