Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is done waiting, declaring this season a 'now-or-never' year for a Super Bowl run. After two seasons of falling short in deep playoff runs and three years of missing the postseason, Burrow is treating 2026 with urgency.

'You can keep pushing it down the road or you can talk about it now and say this is the year,' Burrow said Thursday following a joint practice with the Chicago Bears. 'I'm tired of saying, 'Next year, next year, next year.' This is it.'

The Bengals closed their joint session with strong performances, winning both end-of-game scenarios. Newly acquired defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II made an impact with a batted interception, while defensive end Myles Murphy recorded two sacks including a safety. Cornerback Jalen Davis sealed the victory with an interception against the Bears.

Cincinnati has aggressively retooled its roster, signing linebacker Boye Mafe to a three-year, $60 million deal and acquiring Lawrence. Burrow believes the revamped defense can carry the team back to contention, though the offense still seeks consistency as the preseason winds down.

The Bengals open their season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in three weeks.