Louis Riddick Issues Stark Warning: Bengals’ Latest Move Could Backfire Spectacularly

Ever stare at a Bengals helmet just lying there on the grass and wonder if it’s quietly screaming, “Please, not another Thursday night thriller!”? Well, that’s the vibe swirling around Cincinnati this season — battered, bruised, and caught in a relentless storm of injuries that’s left fans biting their nails raw. After the Week 12 debacle against the Patriots, absent their key stars like Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, the Bengals find themselves at a crossroads. Week 13 forces a high-stakes gamble: do you risk Burrow’s still-healing toe against a ferocious Baltimore Ravens squad, or fold ‘em and plan for tomorrow? Louis Riddick isn’t shy about calling this move what it is—a colossal error. The big question now: do you play for the moment or guard the future? As a longtime observer of gridiron battles, I can’t help but feel the tension not just in the locker room, but in every fan’s heartbeat… and man, it’s a doozy.

A Cincinnati Bengals helmet sits on the grass before the start of a preseason game between the Bengals and Washington Commanderat FedExField on August 26, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. — (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

The Cincinnati Bengals face mounting pressure as they navigate a season filled with setbacks. In their Week 12 loss to the New England Patriots, the Bengals were without Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Trey Hendrickson, and lost Tee Higgins to injury during the game.

Now, in Week 13, Cincinnati must decide if risking Burrow’s health against the Baltimore Ravens makes sense given their current trajectory and his ongoing recovery from a toe injury. With Burrow expected to start, analyst Louis Riddick believes the Bengals are making a big mistake.

“The Bengals aren’t going anywhere as far as 2025, and I know this is the highest form of competition when it comes to pro football, and you’re being paid to do a job, and Joe Burrow’s being paid handsomely. But at the same time, I’m trying to look out for his long-term future. I don’t think it’s served by putting him out there in a season that right now isn’t going anywhere. I just wouldn’t want to risk further injury. I know he could get injured at any time. It is football. He’s paid to do, but I wouldn’t put him out there,” Riddick said.

"I'm trying to look out for his long-term future, and the long-term future of the Bengals. I don't think it's served by putting him out there in a season that right now isn't going anywhere."

– @LRiddickESPN on Joe Burrow returning to the #Bengals. pic.twitter.com/deTEhaRUc4

— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) November 25, 2025

Host Dan Patrick countered that Burrow wants to compete and fans expect to see him play. Riddick remained firm in his position, shifting the focus to what the medical team determines.

The key, he said, lies with doctors and trainers who understand the actual risk involved. Riddick also emphasized the importance of protecting such a significant investment.

If Burrow’s return could jeopardize his career, the safer path becomes clear. Cincinnati could look ahead to 2026 with a fully healthy quarterback rather than gamble now with the playoffs seemingly out of reach.

The decision ultimately falls on the organization’s medical staff and front office. Whether they prioritize immediate performance or long-term stability will define how the rest of the season unfolds for Cincinnati and perhaps Burrow’s future as well.

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