Bengals Acquire Joe Flacco from Browns to Address Quarterback Crisis
The Cincinnati Bengals have made a significant move to bolster their quarterback situation, acquiring veteran signal-caller Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns. This trade, confirmed by sources to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, includes a sixth-round draft pick heading to Cincinnati, while Cleveland receives a fifth-round pick in return.
Cincinnati’s decision comes in the wake of franchise quarterback Joe Burrow suffering a toe injury in Week 2. Since then, the Bengals have struggled, with Jake Browning stepping in as a starter. Browning has faced difficulties, throwing eight interceptions across four games, including three starts. The team’s performance has declined sharply, with a current record of 2-3 following three consecutive losses. In their most recent game, a 37-24 defeat against the Detroit Lions, Browning’s three interceptions further raised concerns about the team’s offensive capabilities.
Cincinnati’s head coach, Zac Taylor, has expressed uncertainty regarding Browning’s future as the starter. Following the loss to Detroit, he stated that the organization would assess all personnel options to ensure the best decisions were made. Taylor acknowledged that the turnover rate has led to legitimate speculation regarding Browning’s position.
The Bengals, who entered the season with high expectations after a strong showing last year, are now looking to Flacco to provide a potential spark. The 40-year-old quarterback has a track record of revitalizing offenses, most notably earning the Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year award in 2023. During a five-game stretch with the Browns, Flacco helped lead the team to a 4-1 record, throwing for 1,616 yards and 13 touchdowns after taking over for an injured Deshaun Watson.
Flacco’s time with the Indianapolis Colts last season also showcased his ability to perform under pressure, completing 65.3% of his passes for 1,761 yards and 12 touchdowns in eight games, six of which were starts. His experience and leadership could prove invaluable for the Bengals as they navigate the remainder of the season.
With Flacco’s departure from Cleveland, there is potential for Dillon Gabriel to take over as the starting quarterback. Gabriel replaced Flacco in the Browns’ most recent game against the Minnesota Vikings, while Shedeur Sanders, who has been serving as the emergency third-string quarterback, may be elevated to the No. 2 spot.
As the Bengals move forward with Flacco under center, the organization hopes to reverse their recent misfortunes and regain their competitive edge in the league.
