Joe Burrow’s ‘Tiny Hands’ Controversy: How He Shut Down The Haters And Took Over The NFL

The Infamous 2020 NFL Combine Tweet

The NFL Combine is one of the most scrutinized events in football, where every aspect of a prospect’s physical abilities is measured, analyzed, and dissected. For Joe Burrow, the 2020 NFL Combine brought unexpected controversy—not for his throwing ability, football IQ, or leadership, but for something much smaller: his hand size.

At the Combine, Burrow’s hands measured 9 inches, which was considered below average for an NFL quarterback. The measurement sparked debate among analysts, with some questioning whether his grip on the ball would be an issue at the professional level.

Instead of taking the discussion too seriously, Burrow responded with humor. He posted a now-legendary tweet:

“Considering retirement after I was informed the football will be slipping out of my tiny hands. Please keep me in your thoughts.”

The tweet instantly went viral, showing Burrow’s personality and ability to handle pressure with a lighthearted approach.

Fast forward five years, and it’s safe to say that his hand size hasn’t been a problem at all.

From Hand Size Concerns to NFL Stardom

Despite the pre-draft concerns, Joe Burrow was selected first overall in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. He quickly silenced any doubts, proving himself as one of the league’s most talented and clutch quarterbacks.

Burrow’s NFL Career So Far

Rookie Season (2020): A Strong Start Cut Short

Burrow’s debut season showed flashes of brilliance as he showcased elite accuracy, pocket presence, and decision-making. However, his rookie campaign was cut short due to a devastating ACL and MCL tear in Week 11.

Despite the injury, Burrow’s performance had already convinced Bengals fans that they had their franchise quarterback.

2021: The Bengals’ Super Bowl Run

Returning stronger than ever in 2021, Burrow led the Bengals to their first Super Bowl appearance in over 30 years. He posted 4,611 passing yards, 34 touchdowns, and a league-best 70.4% completion rate, proving he could compete with the NFL’s best.

In the playoffs, he led Cincinnati to wins over the Las Vegas Raiders, Tennessee Titans, and Kansas City Chiefs, cementing his status as an elite QB. Though they fell short to the Rams in Super Bowl LVI, Burrow’s leadership and performance made it clear: he was here to stay.

2022-2023: Establishing Himself as a Top QB

Over the next two seasons, Burrow continued to shine, leading the Bengals to another AFC Championship appearance in 2022. He consistently ranked among the league’s best in:

Passing yards
Completion percentage
Touchdowns
Game-winning drives

Although injuries hampered his 2023 season, his ability to perform under pressure, deliver in big moments, and stay cool-headed has made him one of the NFL’s most respected quarterbacks.

2024: A Record-Breaking Season Amidst Team Challenges

In the 2024 season, Joe Burrow delivered an outstanding individual performance. He achieved:

4,918 passing yards: setting a new franchise record for single-season passing yards.
43 touchdowns: surpassing his previous records and establishing a new franchise high.
9 interceptions: demonstrating improved decision-making and accuracy.
70.6% completion rate: leading the league and showcasing his precision.

Despite Burrow’s exceptional stats, the Bengals finished the season with a 9-8 record, missing the playoffs. The team faced challenges, but Burrow’s performance remained a beacon of hope for the franchise’s future.

Why Hand Size Was Never an Issue

Despite all the speculation before the draft, Burrow has never struggled with ball security.

1. Pocket Presence and Decision-Making

One of Burrow’s greatest strengths is his elite pocket awareness. He navigates pressure better than most quarterbacks, stepping up or escaping when needed. His ability to anticipate defensive movements reduces the risk of fumbles, regardless of hand size.

2. Quick Release and Accuracy

Burrow’s release is among the fastest in the league. His quick decision-making allows him to avoid big hits, and his accuracy (often over 68% completion rate) ensures that he rarely holds onto the ball too long.

3. Strong Grip and Control

Hand size only matters if a quarterback struggles to grip the ball properly in difficult conditions (like rain or cold weather). Burrow has played in numerous poor-weather games, including freezing AFC North matchups, and has never shown any issues controlling the ball.

4. Mental Toughness and Confidence

Perhaps the most crucial factor is Burrow’s mentality. He never let the hand-size debate shake his confidence, instead using it as motivation to prove doubters wrong. His mental toughness has been evident in high-pressure games, comebacks, and playoff performances.

Other NFL QBs Who Overcame Hand Size Concerns

Burrow isn’t the only quarterback to face questions about hand size before entering the NFL. Other QBs with below-average hand measurements who became stars include:

Drew Brees (10x Pro Bowler, Super Bowl Champion): 9.25 inches
Patrick Mahomes (2x MVP, 3x Super Bowl Champion): 9.25 inches
Ryan Tannehill (Pro Bowler, playoff starter): 9 inches

Clearly, hand size isn’t a make-or-break factor for NFL success.

Burrow’s Impact on the Bengals and the NFL

1. Culture Change in Cincinnati

Before Burrow’s arrival, the Bengals were often viewed as a struggling franchise. Since drafting him, they have transformed into Super Bowl contenders. His leadership and confidence have completely reshaped the team’s identity.

2. A Future Hall of Famer?

At just 27 years old, Burrow has already accomplished more than many quarterbacks do in their entire careers. If he continues at this pace, he has a strong chance of being a Hall of Famer one day.

3. A Fan Favorite

Burrow’s charisma, cool demeanor, and competitive spirit have made him one of the most beloved players in the NFL. His viral tweet from 2020 is still widely shared, proving that his ability to handle criticism with humor is just another reason fans love him.

Final Thoughts

Five years after the infamous “tiny hands” controversy, Joe Burrow has made one thing clear: hand size never mattered.

With a Super Bowl appearance, multiple playoff victories, and elite performances year after year, Burrow has silenced all doubters.

His 2020 tweet remains one of the most iconic pre-draft moments in recent memory, and looking back, it’s obvious that the only thing “small” about Burrow is the list of reasons to doubt him!