Injuries and rust are valid excuses to explain away Joe Burrow's early-season struggles during his tenure as Cincinnati Bengals quarterback. However, he actually made it through training camp healthy this year, only to see his offense sputter again in Week 1.
Although the Bengals beat the Cleveland Browns 17-16 for their first season-opening victory since 2021, Burrow and the offense looked awful in the second half in particular. Jordan Battle's interception was the only reason Evan McPherson got in position for what wound up being the winning field goal.
Burrow led the NFL in touchdown passes and throwing yards in 2024, though, so it stands to reason he won't take long to round back into elite form.