The Bengals think they’re playing fantasy football, and Joe Burrow keeps paying the price

The article discusses the Cincinnati Bengals' approach to building their NFL team, which has focused more on acquiring flashy offensive weapons rather than prioritizing the protection of their star quarterback, Joe Burrow. The Bengals have repeatedly failed to address their offensive line, leading to multiple injuries for Burrow. In their recent game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Burrow suffered a turf toe injury while being sacked, an injury that is expected to keep him out for at least three months. The article emphasizes that building a successful NFL team requires a more balanced approach that considers roster depth, coaching schemes, and the importance of "unsexy" positions, such as the offensive line, in addition to acquiring talented players. The Bengals' approach of prioritizing fantasy football-style skill players over comprehensive roster construction has resulted in Burrow, their franchise quarterback, repeatedly paying the price.