Bengals Fans Concerned After Joe Burrow's Risky Plays at Flag Football Classic

Quarterback took several hard hits while playing in the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, worrying Cincinnati supporters.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 6:04pm

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Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow struggled in the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, throwing an interception and taking multiple hard hits that concerned his team's fans. Burrow's performance, which included a play where his pants were accidentally pulled off, sparked backlash from Bengals supporters who worried about their star player's safety in the exhibition game.

Why it matters

Burrow has dealt with multiple season-ending injuries in his young NFL career, so Bengals fans were understandably worried to see him risking further harm in a flag football game. The team's success largely depends on Burrow's health, making any potential injuries during the offseason a major concern for the organization and its supporters.

The details

In the game against Team USA, Burrow threw an interception for a touchdown early on and took several hard hits, including one where he fell to the turf and questioned the legality of the play. There was also a moment where Burrow's pants were accidentally pulled off while stretching for the end zone. Bengals fans reacted angrily on social media, questioning why the team allowed Burrow to participate in such a risky event during the offseason.

  • The Fanatics Flag Football Classic took place on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Joe Burrow

The starting quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals, who has dealt with multiple season-ending injuries in his young NFL career.

Tom Brady

The former NFL quarterback whose team faced off against Burrow's squad in the flag football game.

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What they’re saying

“If I am a Bengals fan I am having a stroke watching Joe Burrow in this game”

— Justin Penik

“How are the Bengals allowing Burrow to do this???”

— Tobonga

What’s next

The Bengals will likely review Burrow's participation in the flag football game and determine if it was appropriate given his injury history.

The takeaway

While Burrow should be allowed to enjoy his offseason, Bengals fans are rightfully concerned about their star quarterback risking injury in a flag football exhibition. The team will need to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of Burrow's involvement in such events going forward to protect their most valuable asset.