Jake Browning: Bengals backup QB surging onto the scene

The Bengals lose Burrow to injury, but Browning is stepping up as QB1, proving himself as a backup.

The Cincinnati Bengals fanbase was devastated when Joe Burrow suffered a season-ending injury, but hope emerged in the form of backup quarterback Jake Browning. Browning, a former standout at the University of Washington, has shown flashes of potential in his limited playing time with the Bengals.

Browning was a highly-touted recruit coming out of high school, receiving offers from top programs such as Alabama and Utah before ultimately choosing Washington. He had a standout season in 2016, earning Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year honors and leading the Huskies to the College Football Playoff semifinals.

Despite his collegiate success, Browning went undrafted and spent time on the practice squad of the Minnesota Vikings before joining the Bengals in 2021. He initially remained on the practice squad but showed enough potential to earn a spot on the 53-man roster for the 2023 season.

With Burrow sidelined, Browning has seized the opportunity to showcase his skills as the Bengals' starting quarterback. He has impressed with his accuracy and poise, giving hope to the team and its fans in the wake of Burrow's injury.

Browning's journey from highly-touted recruit to undrafted free agent to starting quarterback is a testament to his resilience and determination. His performance in the face of adversity has endeared him to Bengals fans and solidified his place as a key player for the team moving forward.