Looks like the Cincinnati Bengals have finally pulled off their big quarterback upgrade! They have traded for veteran Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns. This trade arrives only two days after the Bengals suffered their third-straight loss this season. The agreement extends to a 2026 sixth-round draft choice in addition to the initial fifth-round choice.
Flacco, a 16-year veteran, provides an incredible upside with his Super Bowl pedigree and intimidating presence on offense. In 2023, he secured the Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year honor. This triumph exemplifies his amazing comeback against all odds after a hard-fought battle with the Indianapolis Colts. During his time with the Colts, Flacco was able to complete an eye-popping 65.3% of his passes. He passed for 1,761 yards and 12 touchdowns through the air in only eight games. In the end—including a tumultuous start—he ended up being productive and effective when it mattered most.
Prior to coming over with the Colts, Flacco fared well for 11 productive years with the Baltimore Ravens. He etched his name into NFL history by being named MVP of Super Bowl XLVII. His experience and winning mentality will be invaluable assets as he meshes into Cincinnati’s already talented offensive roster.
After sputtering through the first two months of the season, with Flacco’s arrival, the Bengals hope to solve their quarterback woes. He steps into the void created by Dillon Gabriel, who claims the starting job after Flacco’s stint in Cleveland. In those four games with the Browns, Flacco only completed 58.1% of his passes. He passed for 815 yards, two touchdowns, and six picks. The choice to trade him creates a path for Shedeur Sanders to move up to the No. 2 QB spot.
Zac Taylor, head coach of the Bengals, was sure that Flacco could get the job done.
“Joe is an experienced quarterback with a history of winning,” – Zac Taylor
Though Flacco’s stay in Cleveland was brief, his influence has been long lasting. He replaced the injured Deshaun Watson and led the franchise to an unlikely postseason berth last season. He threw for 1,616 yards and 13 touchdowns during that stretch, reinforcing his credentials as a dependable signal-caller.
Shedeur Sanders, an impressive young quarterback, has been working closely with Flacco. He put over the impact of the veteran on his own transition into the league.
“He was definitely somebody I leaned on for wisdom, and I feel like he helped me a lot,” – Shedeur Sanders
Flacco’s arrival in Cincinnati leaves another interesting milestone. Completing the rotation, this means he has now played for all four teams in the AFC North, minus the Pittsburgh Steelers. His vast experience and track record of success could be key for a Bengals roster that is clearly still looking for a consistent groove right now.
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