Mike Greenberg Makes Epic Case for Bengals and Joe Burrow in 2025 NFL Season
On a recent segment of ESPN’s Get Up, Mike Greenberg delivered a passionate and detailed case for why the Cincinnati Bengals, led by star quarterback Joe Burrow, are primed for a massive comeback in the 2025 NFL season. Despite falling short of the playoffs in 2024 with a 9–8 record, Greenberg argues that Cincinnati remains one of the most dangerous and complete teams in the AFC—and may even be the team to beat if key elements fall into place.
First and foremost, Greenberg emphasized the elite play of Joe Burrow. After recovering from an early-season calf strain, Burrow returned to full form and reminded the NFL world why he’s considered one of the top quarterbacks in the game. He finished the 2024 season with over 4,900 passing yards and 43 touchdowns, topping many statistical categories. Greenberg noted that Burrow’s efficiency, leadership, and poise in pressure moments separate him from the pack, and he’s entering 2025 more motivated than ever.
A key part of the Bengals’ potential resurgence lies in their offensive firepower. Greenberg highlighted the unstoppable trio of Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins. Chase led the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns in 2024, earning the coveted receiver “Triple Crown.” Despite the uncertainty around Tee Higgins’ long-term contract situation, Greenberg pointed out that Cincinnati’s front office remains committed to keeping its core intact, especially with Burrow advocating strongly for Higgins and other key players to stay. As long as these weapons are on the field, the Bengals will have one of the most explosive offenses in the league.
Defensively, Greenberg acknowledged Cincinnati’s struggles in 2024, particularly in the first half of the season when they allowed multiple high-scoring shootouts. However, he praised the team’s proactive offseason adjustments, including hiring Al Golden as the new defensive coordinator. The team also focused heavily on bolstering the secondary and adding speed at linebacker during the draft and free agency. Greenberg believes that if the defense can make even modest improvements, the offense is good enough to carry them deep into January.
Another key point in Greenberg’s case was momentum. The Bengals closed the 2024 season on a five-game win streak, showing resilience and cohesion after an up-and-down campaign. This late-season surge gave fans—and Greenberg—confidence that the team is peaking at the right time. With the roster now healthier, more experienced, and driven by the hunger of missing the playoffs, the Bengals are in a perfect spot to return to contender status.
In closing, Greenberg summed it up best: “As long as Joe Burrow is under center, you can never count the Bengals out. Add in an elite receiving corps, a stronger defense, and a chip on their shoulder from last season—and this team is a real threat to win it all in 2025.”
