Bengals Activate Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase Returns for Thanksgiving Clash

The Cincinnati Bengals are preparing for a pivotal Thanksgiving Day matchup against the Baltimore Ravens with some much-needed reinforcements. Star quarterback Joe Burrow has been activated off injured reserve, while wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase returns from a one-game suspension. Their presence gives the Bengals a chance to stabilize an offense that has struggled without its top playmakers.

Burrow has been sidelined since Week 2 due to a toe injury, forcing the Bengals to rely on backup quarterbacks in his absence. The offense has shown flashes of promise with Joe Flacco under center, but inconsistency has prevented Cincinnati from stringing together the wins they need. With only three victories on the season, the time for a turnaround is pressing.

Chase, meanwhile, missed a game due to a suspension stemming from an on-field altercation with Jalen Ramsey. His return adds another dynamic weapon for Burrow, providing a proven deep threat and red-zone target that the team has sorely missed.

The Bengals’ coaching staff and players now face a critical juncture. With Burrow and Chase back, Cincinnati has the talent to compete in a tough AFC North and potentially make a push for the postseason if they can maximize this opportunity.

1. Burrow Returns to Lead the Offense

Joe Burrow’s return offers stability to a Bengals offense that has been in flux. Known for his poise and accuracy, Burrow immediately restores leadership and confidence to the unit. His presence allows the team to execute its full playbook and return to the rhythm it relied upon early in the season. Before his activation, Burrow emphasized accountability among players, highlighting that success comes from execution rather than relying solely on coaching schemes. “At the end of the day, you have to go make plays, and you have to play within that system,” Burrow said. His message underscores the importance of effort, focus, and discipline as Cincinnati aims to right its season. The quarterback’s return is particularly timely given the Bengals’ record, as they cannot afford further losses in a competitive AFC North. With a healthy Burrow, the offense can maximize explosive plays and provide stability in crucial situations. Having Burrow back also boosts the team’s morale. Players who struggled to find consistency under backup quarterbacks now have the reassurance of a proven leader guiding them. This confidence could be the difference in tight matchups during the remainder of the season.

2. Chase Returns to Strengthen Receiving Corps

Ja’Marr Chase is another key component in the Bengals’ push to regain momentum. The star wideout missed a game due to a suspension, but his impact on the field is undeniable. Chase’s ability to stretch the field and create separation provides Burrow with a reliable target and opens opportunities for the rest of the offense. In addition to his deep-threat capability, Chase’s presence forces defenses to account for multiple dimensions of the Bengals’ attack. His return helps balance the offensive strategy and alleviates pressure on the running game and other receivers. Chase’s chemistry with Burrow is particularly significant. Having spent multiple seasons developing timing and trust with the quarterback, their reunion is likely to produce immediate results, particularly in high-pressure situations like the Thanksgiving matchup against the Ravens. His leadership off the field also provides a stabilizing influence. As a veteran among the team’s young receivers, Chase sets an example for effort, preparation, and focus, which can elevate the entire unit.

3. Outlook for a Late-Season Push

The Bengals now have the pieces in place to make a meaningful run down the stretch. With Burrow and Chase back, the offense has its primary playmakers healthy, allowing the team to operate at full strength. The Thanksgiving game against Baltimore represents an early opportunity to set a positive tone. Cincinnati’s coaching staff will look to leverage the return of their stars by crafting game plans that exploit the Ravens’ defensive tendencies. Both Burrow and Chase will be central to creating big plays and sustaining drives. Consistency and execution remain key factors. While talent alone cannot guarantee victories, the combination of Burrow’s leadership and Chase’s playmaking ability gives the Bengals the tools necessary to compete effectively. If the team can build momentum with strong performances in the coming games, Cincinnati could turn its season around and keep its postseason hopes alive. Maintaining focus, limiting mistakes, and capitalizing on opportunities will be critical to sustaining a late-season push.