NFL quarterbacks often endure tough hits during games, and this season is no exception, with key players already sidelined. However, Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals’ quarterback, had a surprising reaction after a game incident. Burrow shared an unusual story after facing the Houston Texans this past Sunday.

After the match, Burrow told Will Anderson Jr., one of the Texans’ pass rushers, that the hit had ‘popped [his] rib back into place.’ Anderson initially perceived this remark as a joke, laughing alongside Burrow. However, Burrow’s comments were genuine.

On Tuesday, the NFL released footage showing Burrow, mic’d up during the game, recounting the same experience to his colleagues. He stated, ‘One of those hits popped my rib back in place,’ as he engaged star receiver Ja’Marr Chase. The unexpected revelation surprised Chase and others, prompting them to ask Burrow to reiterate his statement, which he did.

Burrow’s teammates speculated about the specific tackle responsible, believing Danielle Hunter’s hit was the cause. Receiver Tee Higgins recalled, ‘He stood up and he said “Aaaarrgghhh.”’ Following this, Burrow noted an improvement in how he felt.

Burrow aligned with another teammate’s observation that Hunter ‘adjusted your whole back.’ Before Week 2, Burrow’s back issues landed him on the injury report. Despite being deemed questionable, Burrow participated in the game against the Texans.

His recovery raises curiosity over his forthcoming performance, especially with the upcoming encounter against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Improved health might suggest that the rib adjustment helped.

Despite heavy tackles, Bengals’ head coach Zac Taylor mentioned on Monday that Burrow’s condition post-game is ‘good,’ even if not entirely fit for exhaustive practice. Bengals fans can feel reassured that Burrow hasn’t worsened due to the rough on-field impacts.