The Cincinnati Bengals have made a power move and traded for veteran quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns. They traded two draft picks to grab the space needed to pull off the deal. This trade only involves a fifth-round and a sixth-round pick. Most notably, it zeroes in on the team’s quarterback depth chart, particularly after starter Joe Burrow was lost with a season ending injury. At 40 years old, Flacco has some serious experience under his belt. He opened his NFL career in 2008 with the Baltimore Ravens.
Flacco, meanwhile, arrives to the Bengals just in time to start against the Green Bay Packers on a short week. The Packers are 3-0 and now enjoy a huge 14.5-point margin as home favorites. That gives Flacco a mere one win from four starts this season with the Browns, courtesy of a Week 3 win over the Packers. Now, he’s looking to Cincinnati’s offense to get a load of their tricks.
Flacco’s first day with the Bengals
Since arriving in Cincinnati, Flacco has thrown himself into his work. He’s working a whole lot with the Bengals’ coaching staff to learn their offensive system. His attitude and way of doing things has really made an impression on his new peers. Ja’Marr Chase even mentioned the rapidity with which Flacco has ingratiated himself into the team culture.
“They just see that we’ve got a chance,” – Ja’Marr Chase
Chase further commented on Flacco’s positive impact, stating, “Happy to be here, loves talking to the guys.” The bond among the team does seem to be just as important as they lineup for the next daunting challenge ahead.
Flacco’s transition couldn’t come at a better time as he’s amassed just two touchdowns and six interceptions this year. And even with his lackluster play in Cleveland on his resume, the Bengals’ coaching staff has faith in his skills and experience. Tee Higgins, another member of the receiving corps, praised Flacco’s skill set, saying, “It doesn’t look like he took a step off with his arm. So, it’s looking good.”
This would be Flacco’s first start for Cincinnati. He adds important fresh knowledge from his recent outing against the Packers. This familiarity might give him a unique perspective to draw from that will help the Bengals in their showdown.
Part of that comes from the fact that the coaching staff views Flacco as a player who can lead this team back to contention. The veteran quarterback’s experience is expected to play a significant role in enhancing the Bengals’ offensive performance, especially given the current circumstances.
“The guy’s been doing this for a while,” – Tee Higgins
Flacco’s first public remarks following the trade are scheduled for Friday after practice, where he will likely address his new role and outlook for the upcoming game. His impact on the field and leadership is expected to instill confidence in teammates and fans on the red and white striped grass.
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