The Cincinnati Bengals managed to take down the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 17, but the win didn't come without some worry for the fanbase. On the Bengals' final drive of the game, star quarterback Joe Burrow was seen limping off the field with an apparent knee injury. While Burrow has insisted the injury isn't a big deal, the second-year QB did let on to his status for the Bengals' Week 18 matchup with the Cleveland Browns. Per Marisa Contipelli, Burrow said he does not expect to suit up on Sunday, though he maintained that he could play if need be.

While Bengals fans were likely hoping to see their star quarterback continue the red-hot streak that has seen him throw for 971 yards across his past two games, playing it safe with the franchise QB is likely the best option for the Bengals, who have already clinched a playoff berth.

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Regarding his ailing knee, Burrow described the knock as being “sore, but not bad.” A relatively meaningless matchup with the Browns isn't enough to warrant Burrow taking the field in Week 18, so instead it will be the Brandon Allen show for the regular-season finale. Ensuring that Burrow is back to 100% for the Bengals' playoff push is a clear priority, so opting to roll with Allen is an obvious decision for Zac Taylor and Co.

The additional week of rest should provide Burrow all the time he needs to get his knee right and make sure he's in top condition for what will be his first-ever NFL playoff game.