Joe Burrow has been one of the faces of the NFL for a years, but even one of the biggest stars in football has a number of everyday essentials. The Bengals QB sat down with one of GQ’s most popular series, “10 Essentials”, where Burrow’s ten things were highlighted. They range from things of a football nature to items that evoke a memory of different periods in his life. Some of the things on the Bengals’ quarterback’s list may surprise you.
Burrow’s Ten Things He Cannot Live Without: Hats Reign Supreme
Burrow has an affinity for hats, and is also very particular about the types of hats that he wears.
“I like to grow my hair out sometimes, and sometimes that comes with a little bed head, so usually take a shower, put the hat on backwards or a headband that kinda makes my hair the way I want it to look. It can’t be too bulky ’cause I have a small head. If it’s too wide, big, it looks odd.” I like it to be firm so it keeps its structure when it’s on my head. I probably have 30, 40 hats or so. If there’s ever a cool one that I see, I’ll buy it, or a lot of ’em are gifted. Big hat guy.”
If you ask most guys, hats would probably make their top ten list. For many people, a hat is more than just an accessory. It can become part of their identity, and based on Burrow’s comments about owning 30 to 40 hats, it is clear the Bengals quarterback views them the same way.
Chess Makes Burrow’s Ten Things List
Would anyone have guessed that the game of chess would make Burrow’s ten things list?
“Next up, my chess board. I started playing chess in elementary school when it was indoor recess. If it was raining or snowing or whatnot, my classmates and I would often play chess. That kind of started my love for it, and then I didn’t play a ton for a while. Got back into it during COVID, and I went down the whole rabbit hole of the openings and the YouTube videos and whatnot, and got pretty decent at it. And maybe one day, I’ll try to go to some tournaments and improve my skills greater than what they are right now.”
Chess may be one of the more surprising entries on Burrow’s list, but it offers a glimpse into how his mind works away from football. While there is no direct connection between moving pieces on a chessboard and reading NFL defenses, both require patience, preparation, and the ability to think several moves ahead. Those are qualities that have helped Burrow become one of the league’s top quarterbacks.
Other Items that Made Burrow’s Ten Things List
Burrow’s ten things list were rounded out by the following items:
- Football, which of course goes without saying.
- Lip Balm
- Water Bottle
- BODYARMOR FIT
- Recovery Sneakers
- Duffel bag
- Bracelets
- Sunglasses
The rest of Burrow’s ten things list paints the picture of someone who values function over flash. A water bottle, lip balm, recovery sneakers, and a duffel bag are not exactly headline-grabbing choices, but they are the kinds of everyday items a professional athlete genuinely relies on. At the same time, the sunglasses, bracelets, and trademark confidence that came through during the interview offered another reminder of the cool, laid-back personality that has helped turn Burrow into one of the NFL’s most recognizable stars. There is a reason GQ chose Burrow for its series. He is not just one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks; he has become one of the league’s most recognizable personalities and style icons as well.
Main Image: USA TODAY via Imagn Images
