The 2026-27 season is almost a do-or-don't campaign for the Cincinnati Bengals. While the club has been competitive with Joe Burrow at center, the club hasn't been in the playoffs since the 2022-23 season. While that may be the case, Cincy is all-in on having Burrow as its quarterback. But for some reason, Russell Wilson decided to stir the pot right before the Week 1 opener.

During a pregame show on CBS, the former NFL quarterback turned analyst believes that the 29-year-old signal-caller could be on his way out of Cincinnati. Wilson claims that if the Bengals fail to reach the playoffs again, Burrow could be open to demanding a trade.

“I think he's tired of losing,” Wilson said. “He's said that a few times. He's really focused on making sure that this is that special year. Listen, if it doesn't go well in Cincinnati this year, I'm just saying, I'm just telling you right now. I'm telling you right now, if it doesn't go well in Cincinnati this year, Joe Burrow's gone. I think he wants to leave. What's going to be interesting is, where does he go? There's some great teams that need a quarterback.”

"If it doesn't go well in Cincinnati this year, Joe Burrow is gone."@DangeRussWilson 👀 pic.twitter.com/fbRWVZLuYN

— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) September 13, 2026

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Burrow is entering the seventh year of his career. While he's been fantastic throughout his career, his injury woes have been a bit of a concern. He's only played in 10 or fewer games in a single season three times, after being limited to eight appearances last year. But when healthy, the three-time Pro Bowler plays as one of the best quarterbacks in the league.

Russell Wilson's trade rumors feel a bit premature, as the new campaign just began. Regardless, ending the playoff drought is a top priority for Joe Burrow and the Bengals. They kick off the season with a Week 1 home opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.