Joe Burrow on track to start in Week 1 vs. the Vikings

It’s been a very productive offseason for the Cincinnati Bengals, but there’s no question the biggest storyline to watch has been Joe Burrow.

Recovering from a torn ACL and other damage suffered in his left knee late in his rookie season, Burrow has had his work cut out for him in getting far along enough in his recovery to be ready for Week 1 of the 2021 season.

But this is Joe Burrow we’re talking about, easily one of the biggest competitors in the sport of football. He was never going to let this injury keep him from being ready for the start of next season, and that’s exactly what’s played out this offseason.

Today, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Burrow is “all systems go” for the Week 1 opener against the Minnesota Vikings, according to Dr. Neal ElAttrache of Kerlan-Jobe in Los Angeles.

“He’s on track for full go for the start of the season,” ElAttrache, who operated on Burrow in December, wrote in a text. “He’s doing all the work. He’s worked his tail off and been an amazingly mature participant in his recovery. He’s focused and great to work with.”

Doctors do not want any contact until nine months, which could lead to Burrow sitting out the preseason. But the goal, now well within reach, is to be ready for the start of the regular season.

“We are very happy with his recovery to say the least,” ElAttrache said. “Notwithstanding the nature of his injury and extent of his reconstruction, his knee is performing perfectly.

So while it sounds like Burrow may be limited in training camp and potentially the preseason, it’s great to hear there’s a very good chance he’ll be starting Week 1.

Be sure to read the full ESPN story for more on Burrow’s recovery.