Steelers' AFC North Rival Joe Burrow Admits To Seriously Questioning Why He's Playing Football Still

The Pittsburgh Steelers' fan base has been both jealous and embarrassed for the Cincinnati Bengals organization. On one hand, the Bengals boast one of the best offenses of the last decade, led by star quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receivers Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase. Their firepower on offense is undeniable, and when fully healthy, they can challenge any team in the league. On the other hand, their defense has been a major weakness, leading to missed opportunities in crucial games over the past few seasons.

In addition to defensive struggles, the Bengals have also been hit hard by injuries to their star players. The team has invested a tremendous amount of money and resources in their three superstar offensive players, but football remains a team sport. One elite unit cannot carry a team alone, and the Bengals’ recent setbacks are proof that even the most talented offensive core cannot guarantee sustained success without balance across the roster.

The pressure on the organization has not gone unnoticed. In a recent conversation with Charlie Clifford, Burrow admitted that he is growing frustrated with the team’s direction and the challenges the Bengals have faced. His comments highlight the tension within Cincinnati and raise questions about whether changes are needed for the franchise to fully capitalize on its offensive talent. For teams like the Steelers, it is a reminder that sustained success requires more than just individual stars. It takes a complete team effort.

"If I want to keep doing this, I have to have fun doing this," Burrow said while speaking with the media on Wednesday. "I have been through a lot. If it's not fun, then what am I doing it for? That is the mindset I am trying to bring to the table."

After this answer, Burrow was asked a direct follow-up question by the reporter. He was asked if he was upset or frustrated, as his behavior seemed to suggest. 

In typical Burrow fashion, he was honest and admitted that there were personal matters, but also issues behind the scenes with the Bengals' organization that were upsetting him.

"There are just a lot of things going on right now," Burrow said. "A lot of things are going on. All of the above. All we can do is focus week-to-week and try to win games. I don't think anybody is really thinking about the playoffs right now. That is within reach and on our fingertips so we just got to keep doing what we are doing and trying to get better."

Steelers Take Lead On AFC North Race

The Steelers sit at 7-6 on the 2025 season and remain in control of the AFC North, showing they are in the driver’s seat when it comes to playoff positioning. The Bengals, meanwhile, are 4-9 and currently third in the division, struggling to find stability and consistency. 

While the playoffs are technically still within reach for Cincinnati, their hopes are beyond life support and hanging by a thread. Burrow’s candid comments reflect the frustration brewing in Cincinnati, but for Pittsburgh, it’s a reminder that staying steady and focused week-to-week is what separates contenders from teams in turmoil.

This would never happen, but let’s try a fun thought experiment. What would you be willing to give up if Joe Burrow suddenly became available for trade and you were the Steelers? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me. I will respond!

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