Joe Burrow

Joe Burrow's journey in football had a promising start at the collegiate level, where he played quarterback for LSU. In 2019, he won the Heisman Trophy, setting a record for the largest victory margin in the award's history. In the same year, he led LSU to victory in the College Football Playoff National Championship, was named SEC Offensive Player of the Year, and received the AP Player of the Year, among other awards. His record-breaking performance in the 2019 Peach Bowl, where he threw seven touchdowns in the first half, is considered one of the greatest in college football history. His acceptance speech for the Heisman Trophy sparked a philanthropic drive, leading to $450,000 in donations to the Athens County food bank.

Following his successful college career, Burrow was selected first overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2020 NFL Draft. His rookie year started with a bang, as he became the only quarterback from his draft class to start on opening week. His performance earned him several records, including the most completions by a rookie quarterback in a single game. In 2021, despite a significant knee injury the year before, he was named NFL Comeback Player of the Year and led the Bengals to their first playoff win since 1990. The same year, he also led the team to an appearance in Super Bowl LVI.

Throughout 2022 and 2024, Burrow continued to make his mark in the NFL. He was selected for the Pro Bowl in both years and was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week multiple times. In 2024, he led the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns. His performance that year included a streak of eight consecutive games with at least 250 passing yards and three touchdowns. His high football IQ and involvement in game plan meetings, coupled with a record for career completion percentage at 68.6%, highlight his strategic approach to the game.