There’s a sense of optimism among the Cincinnati Bengals. Quarterback Joe Burrow is expected to be ready in time for the season opener.

The Cincinnati Bengals kick off the 2023 NFL season on September 10 with a matchup against division rival Cleveland Browns. Quarterback Joe Burrow, who had to take a few weeks off with a leg injury, is still a question mark.

Hope was now offered by offensive coordinator Brian Callahan on Thursday after the final practice of the week. “I think he’s in good shape and we have a good plan to get him ready for Week 1,” the 39-year-old was quoted as saying by “ESPN”.

It was the second straight day Burrow participated in the Bengals’ practice. Neither his arm nor his timing nor his overall physical condition has been affected by the nearly six-week break, Callahan said. The playmaker is expected to return to “more intense periods” in practice next week, while the past few days have been more about not exposing him to too much physical contact.

Cincinnati Bengals hope to use Burrow in Week 1 vs. Cleveland

Burrow himself is optimistic about an assignment against the Browns, Callahan said. The first pick of the 2020 draft also wants to participate in every form of practice, but Cincinnati doesn’t want to rush anything, something wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase also recently called for. “We’re just trying to be smart about when and where those things take place until he’s fully ready to go,” Callahan pointed out.

Head coach Zac Taylor also commented on the issue on Thursday, but would not express as much optimism as his OC. He said the increase in workload had to be dealt with conscientiously, but even he acknowledged that Burrow was making progress. “It was just good to see him out with the team calling plays in the huddle and all those good things in practice. I think that was encouraging for everybody,” Taylor explained.