ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter set off a firestorm Wednesday morning when he passionately weighed in on the possibility of Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow ever demanding a trade. During a heated exchange on ESPN’s “Get Up,” Schefter painted a picture of a league primed for major quarterback movement. It could even include Burrow if circumstances soured in Cincinnati.

“Well, here’s what I’d say to you right now,” Schefter said. “You have the New York Jets sitting here with five first-round draft picks in the next two years, with the capability to do whatever they want at the quarterback position.”

Former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky quickly pushed back, calling it “outrageous” to imagine the Bengals trading Burrow. Retired wide receiver Andrew Hawkins agreed but pointed out Cincinnati’s struggles, noting Burrow’s injuries and lack of playoff success since 2022.

“If you’re able to get a king’s ransom, I don’t think it’s zero percent,” Hawkins said.

Schefter countered by questioning how Burrow feels about his protection and the team’s direction. When Orlovsky admitted that if he were Burrow, he might want out, Schefter raised eyebrows by declaring, “If that’s what he wants, it’s over!”

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Joe Burrow trade speculation turned into a heated discussion on the Bengals

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) throws the ball during the first half against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The conversation came as speculation continues to swirl around Burrow’s long-term future. The 28-year-old has been sidelined since Week 2 with a severe foot injury. In Burrow's absence, veteran Joe Flacco has stepped in to lead the 3-6 Bengals. The team’s lack of consistency and protection for its franchise quarterback has become an ongoing concern.

The New York Jets, who traded multiple stars before the deadline, now hold five first-round picks. They have been mentioned as a potential suitor if Burrow ever became available. Yet despite the chatter, the Bengals have made no indication they would entertain offers.

Schefter’s fiery comments highlighted the growing pressure surrounding Cincinnati’s future. For now, a Burrow trade remains highly unlikely. The debate underscored how fragile even the strongest quarterback-franchise bonds can appear when losing becomes the norm in the NFL.