Joe Burrow Disappointed with Bengals’ 2025 NFL Schedule, Eyes Olympic Flag Football

The Cincinnati Bengals, armed with high hopes and a bolstered roster, are gearing up for the 2025 NFL season, but their star quarterback, Joe Burrow, isn’t thrilled about the schedule. After missing the playoffs last year, the Bengals locked in key players like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, setting the stage for a redemption run. However, when the NFL dropped its full regular-season schedule, Burrow’s reaction was less than enthusiastic.

The two-time Pro Bowler expressed disappointment over the Bengals’ lack of an international game in 2025. With the NFL set to make history by hosting its first regular-season game in Spain, Burrow had hoped to take the field abroad. “I’ve worked hard to grow the game internationally,” he said, clearly bummed about missing the global stage. He’s holding out hope for a future overseas matchup, adding, “Maybe one day we’ll get that chance.”

Burrow also took issue with the Bengals’ Thanksgiving clash against the Baltimore Ravens. It’s the fourth straight year Cincinnati faces their AFC North rivals in a primetime road game. “Playing in Baltimore again isn’t ideal,” Burrow quipped, half-joking about wanting a home game for once. “Cincinnati deserves some of that spotlight.”

On a brighter note, Burrow’s eyes lit up at the prospect of flag football in the 2028 Olympics, following the NFL owners’ unanimous approval for players to participate. “That’s an exciting opportunity,” he said, though he admitted the logistics around training camp could be tricky. Still, the idea of representing the U.S. on an Olympic stage has the quarterback dreaming big.

The Bengals, coming off a 9-8 season, kick off 2025 on the road against the Cleveland Browns on September 7. With Burrow under center, Cincinnati’s ready to chase glory—schedule gripes and all.