Joe Burrow's level of play for the Cincinnati Bengals halfway through the 2026 season has garnered firm praise from Nick Wright.
Burrow has been playing in the NFL since 2020, going through his seventh season with the Bengals. He shines as one of the best quarterbacks in the league when healthy. He also looks to make his way back to the Super Bowl after last appearing in 2021.
Cincinnati is off to a great start this year following disappointing campaigns, having one of the best records in the NFL. Wright talked about Burrow's performances during his Monday appearance on First Things First, labelling him the top selection for the MVP award.
“I have an announcement. First graphic is Joe Burrow, who right now is the MVP of the NFL. With respect to, I understand, Josh Allen is an amazing quarterback. Joe Burrow has been the best quarterback in football…You do it again the way he did. He's the MVP. Maybe Josh will retake it tonight. I think Jordan Love and Burrow and [Brock] Purdy are all ahead of him, but we'll see,” Wright said.
@getnickwright is OFFICIALLY concerned about the Bengals 🤯
“If you can’t get to Joe Burrow, he’s just going to pick you apart.” pic.twitter.com/I8JPBB5JOn
— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) November 9, 2026
What lies ahead for Joe Burrow, Bengals
The Bengals are on pace to get back to the playoffs. As long as Joe Burrow stays healthy and avoids injury, their ceiling looks quite promising.
Burrow has flourished in Year 7 with Cincinnati so far. He has completed 219 passes for 2,386 yards and 23 touchdowns and six interceptions while rushing 23 times for 77 yards and three touchdowns.
Cincinnati has a 6-2 record this season, sitting at second place in the AFC North Division standings. They are above the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens while trailing the Pittsburgh Steelers. In terms of the conference standings, they are sixth place. They lead over the New England Patriots and the Browns while being under the Kansas City Chiefs and the Steelers.
The Bengals will begin preparations for their next matchup, being at home. They host the Steelers in Week 10 as kickoff commences on Nov. 15 at 8:20 p.m. ET.