Joe Burrow to Miss Bengals’ Week 12 Game Against Patriots Despite Full Practice

CINCINNATI, Ohio — November 22, 2025 — Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow will not play in the team’s Week 12 matchup against the New England Patriots, officials said Friday, despite participating fully in practice sessions throughout the week.

Burrow, who has been sidelined due to injury, has been working through recovery and took part in all practice drills leading up to Sunday’s game. However, the Bengals confirmed he will remain inactive for the contest, extending his absence from the lineup.

In Burrow’s place, Joe Flacco will start his sixth straight game as the Bengals’ quarterback. Flacco has been leading the offense since Burrow’s injury and will continue to do so against the Patriots.

The decision to keep Burrow out of the game comes as the team prioritizes his long-term health and recovery. While the quarterback’s full participation in practice suggested progress, coaching staff and medical personnel determined it was not yet appropriate for him to return to game action.

The Bengals have faced challenges in maintaining offensive consistency without Burrow, but Flacco’s experience has provided stability during the stretch. The team’s performance in recent weeks has been closely tied to Flacco’s ability to manage the offense and limit turnovers.

Cincinnati’s game against New England is a key contest as both teams seek to improve their standings in the AFC. The Bengals will rely on Flacco’s leadership and the supporting cast to secure a victory in Burrow’s absence.

No further updates on Burrow’s status have been provided, and the team is expected to continue monitoring his condition on a week-to-week basis. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see when Burrow might return to the field.

The Bengals have not announced any changes to their offensive lineup beyond the quarterback position, and preparations for the Patriots game continue under Flacco’s direction.

This marks another week in which Burrow’s recovery remains a focal point for the Bengals’ coaching staff and medical team as they balance competitive needs with player health.