The Cincinnati Bengals' expectations this season are about as high as ever, and a lot of those expectations lean on Joe Burrow.
The former Heisman winner is yet to be an MVP in the NFL, but it feels like a question of when rather than if.
2024 was perhaps his best shot at the MVP, as he threw for almost 5,000 yards and 42 touchdowns, leading the NFL in both stats. But, with an improved o-line and a defense that should keep Cincinnati competitive, 2026 could be his best chance yet.
Ja'Marr Chase could be the key to a Joe Burrow MVP season
If Burrow is to put 2024-like numbers up, then Ja'Marr Chase will be a huge part of it. You don't need me to go into how big an impact Chase has, as the Chase and Burrow connection is the main thing you would associate with the Bengals in this current era.
However, it's not just Burrow chasing a historic season, as Chase recently said in an interview that he has the personal target of an NFL record 23 touchdowns on top of success for Cincinnati this season. Much like Joe's MVP ambitions, one relies very heavily on the other.
Ja'Marr Chase predicts a 'mean' Joe Burrow this season
As we edge closer and closer to the season, all Bengals fans lust for is to see a deep touchdown pass from Burrow to Chase again; it's what we live for. It seems that this offseason, Burrow is starting to get more and more demaning of his former LSU teammate.
In a recent interview with NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe and Marc Ross, Chase spoke about how Burrow has become 'meaner' and more aggressive this offseason, not that he thinks that is a bad thing at all.
"His demeanour is more aggressive, his face is more aggressive, the way he talks is more aggressive; I kind of like when he’s like that. He’s holding me accountable; I appreciate that."Ja'Marr Chase, NFL Network
The year of "mean" Joe Burrow is upon us and @Real10jayy__ is loving it 😡@CameronWolfe | @MarcRoss | @Bengals pic.twitter.com/O470DElFjh
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) August 9, 2026
A mean Joe Burrow means just one thing: the AFC should be very worried, because when he's in that 'mean' mood, there's no stopping number nine.
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