With 2026 ringing in, several NFL contenders are preparing for the postseason, but the Cincinnati Bengals might have a different tone as Joe Burrow continues to swirl in trade rumors. According to a source, many teams are expected to contact the Bengals to inquire about Burrow’s availability. Cincinnati hasn’t said whether or not they’re open to the idea of moving on without their starting quarterback, but after a few disastrous years, the team could consider the move at the right price. It will take a lot from the Bengals to completely move away from the quarterback, but in the NFL, you can always say “never say never.”
Despite dealing with injury issues in the past, teams are still eyeing the opportunity to give him a fresh start.
The 2026 NFL Joe Burrow Trade That May Shockingly Happen – 3 Potential Suitors
Burrow’s latest comments have circulated on his mental health after having a rough 2025 campaign. It drew enough attention for several analysts to speculate that a trade could be happening, but retirement is also a consideration. Originally selected as a first-round pick, the former two-time Comeback Player of the Year led the franchise to their first Super Bowl appearance, ending the 33-year drought.
In 2024, the Bengals just missed the postseason by an inch, but Burrow still led the league in passing yards and touchdowns. Unfortunately for the Bengals, it wasn’t enough to reel in another playoff run. The plan for the Bengals in 2025 was to make changes, extending Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins to long-term contracts. Burrow hasn’t been able to stay healthy, which could lead to questions regarding his reliability, and a trade could be on the horizon.
Next Possible Teams
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings are the dark-horse candidate to search for an adequate starting quarterback. While JJ McCarthy hasn’t been able to stay healthy, the defense held its own bargain to put him in manageable offensive possessions. If the Vikings retain defensive coordinator Brian Flores, the team is in a good spot to acquire Burrow. The Bengals won’t allow him to join an AFC team, so Minnesota could be a solid landing spot, considering the potential reunion between him and Justin Jefferson.
Despite missing the playoffs this year, the Vikings aren’t far from making their case on offense. McCarthy hasn’t proven to be able to hold his starting duties, so it feels like Burrow is the right move for head coach Kevin O’Connell to trust in for the team moving forward, while McCarthy develops as a backup.
Carolina Panthers
Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers are another team that surprised many across the league. After improving their defense during the offseason, Bryce Young has been able to take advantage of the offensive weapons he has now. However, this doesn’t mean his job is safe even if the Panthers sneak into the postseason.
If Dave Canales is looking for immediate improvement, he would love Burrow in Carolina. He has the mindset and arm to bring out the best in Tetairoa McMillan and the other young pass-catchers. If the Panthers want to get aggressive here, they should get Burrow.
Los Angeles Rams
MVP candidate Matthew Stafford is having his best season, probably in his career. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, as the aging quarterback could retire after the year if they miss the Super Bowl. The offensive regime is still in good hands with Sean McVay and Puka Nacua. If they lose Stafford to retirement, don’t be surprised if the Rams treat Burrow as the new Stafford product.