Bengals QB Joe Burrow explains how he plans to evolve as a leader in the face of an 0-3 start

One of the biggest misconceptions about Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has nothing to do with how he plays.

The kid who grew up idolizing Drew Brees, the fearless "rah-rah" leader of the New Orleans Saints, has never been the same source of verbal enthusiasm. Whenever he speaks with authority, it's been out of necessity. It's not his go-to move to rally the troops.

But that looks to be changing, if only slightly.

Following the Bengals' 38-33 loss to the Washington Commanders on Monday night, Burrow told reporters that he would do some " critical thinking " as to how he can better lead the team going forward.

On Wednesday, he revealed that leading with his words is the pivot he'll make.

"Yeah, maybe a little more vocal," Burrow said. "I'm usually a lead by example kind of guy, but I think I can pick my spots to say some more things."

It's standard operating procedure for the starting quarterback to be the leader of the team, whether or not he says the most in the locker room or on the sidelines. The team goes where he takes them. Burrow is lightyears away from being an exception as he now wears a golden "C" on his jersey, signifying five years of team captaincy. It's why players like safety Geno Stone and tight end Mike Gesicki have flocked to Cincinnati in recent years.

Influx of talent definitely helps when past captains and locker room pillars are no longer alongside Burrow like they were during the postseason runs of 2021 and 2022. The current team is a bit younger as many veterans have needed to be replaced over the past two years.

Turnover on the field can be good, but getting all the younger and newer players to fall in line can require a little more effort. That's what Burrow intends to focus on.

"We got a lot of young guys that were counting on haven't really been here before," Burrow said. "So to have them hear my voice a little bit might be beneficial for them."

Midseason adjustments have been a focal point for the Bengals in recent years, though scheme was always the focal point. The 2024 Bengals, as it stands, simply need to lock in.

That's a job best suited for Burrow, as his voice will carry farther than any other in the locker room.

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