While football might be a team sport, the quarterback position remains one of the most crucial. At the bare minimum, the team needs someone who can game-manage and allow their weapons to score; at best, they land a quarterback who can carry the team on their back.
It is no surprise that the most talented are highly coveted, so when rumors began that this superstar might be available, fans of QB needy teams went wild.
Which Highly Paid QB Has the Trade Rumor Mill Going Wild?
NFL teams are closely monitoring Joe Burrow’s situation with the Cincinnati Bengals. Amid growing speculation about his plans, Burrow’s recent statements have fueled debate about the likelihood of his future with another franchise.
At a press conference this week, Burrow addressed rumors about his future, responding to questions about playing for another NFL team. His earlier comments about enjoying football sparked speculation that he might leave the Bengals or retire, intensifying uncertainty.
Burrow stated he does not anticipate leaving the Bengals next season, but added, “A lot of crazy things happen every year,” making his ongoing commitment and the team’s future uncertain.
“Is there any world you’re not the QB of the Bengals next year?” asked a reporter, while Burrow replied: “I can’t see that.” The reporter pressed, asking if Burrow imagined not being with the Bengals. Burrow replied, “You think about a lot of different things in your life, just like everybody does.”
“There’s a reality where he’s making a very clear declaration. ‘It’s not going to continue to go this way with me as the quarterback.'”@danorlovsky7 weighs in on Joe Burrow and his future with the Bengals ✍️ pic.twitter.com/n6aBwnq1sZ
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) December 18, 2025
The Bengals offered a $275 million contract extension in 2023 (via Spotrac), making Burrow, who ranks No. 34 in the PFSN QB Impact metric with a D+ grade, one of the highest-paid NFL players. The deal included a $40 million signing bonus, $219 million in guaranteed compensation, and an average annual salary of $55 million.
Cincinnati remains committed to Burrow, despite a disappointing 2025 season and his comments about staying, underscoring the franchise’s long-term plans.
NFL Franchises Keep an Eye on Burrow’s Situation
Following his comments at the midweek press conference and before the loss to the Baltimore Ravens, questions from the press and those close to Burrow increased the uncertainty surrounding his future.
On “The Volume” podcast, Danny Parkins told Colin Cowherd that NFL teams should pursue a trade with the Bengals, offering their quarterback and two first-round picks for Burrow. Parkins said, “22-26 teams should call Cincinnati and say our quarterback plus two first-round picks for Joe Burrow.”
“22-26 teams should call Cincinnati and say our quarterback plus two first round picks for Joe Burrow”@colincowherd & @DannyParkins discuss if Joe Burrow wants out of Cincinnati pic.twitter.com/i5TThBgiL6
— The Volume (@TheVolumeSports) December 18, 2025
In 2025, Burrow will earn a $25.25 million base salary, a $10 million signing bonus, and a $4,725 workout bonus, with a $46 million cap hit and a $102 million dead cap value. It remains to be seen which franchise might pursue a deal for him.
