Bengals Acquire Joe Flacco Amid Quarterback Desperation

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Bengals made a significant move on Tuesday, acquiring quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns. The decision came after the Bengals struggled through three games with backup Jake Browning in the wake of starter Joe Burrow‘s injury.

After a tough loss in Week 5, the Bengals recognized the urgency to find a reliable signal-caller. “This trade was the result of an exhaustive search,” said NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport. “They called every team that had three quarterbacks or a viable practice squad option.” Flacco was not the only quarterback the Bengals considered during this search.

In the days following Burrow’s diagnosis, the Bengals even reached out to retired four-time Pro Bowler Derek Carr. However, Carr, who announced his retirement earlier this year due to shoulder issues, remains under contract with the New Orleans Saints, making a potential trade complicated.

Flacco, who is set to start for the Bengals against the Green Bay Packers this Sunday, brings a wealth of experience. He has a history of stepping in quickly, which aligns with Cincinnati’s pressing needs. Despite only practicing with the team a few times since his acquisition, the Bengals are optimistic about his readiness.

Prior to finalizing the trade for Flacco, the Bengals inquired about several other quarterbacks, including Davis Mills and Sam Howell. However, names like Ryan Tannehill did not come up in their discussions, highlighting the team’s focus on finding an active player. Flacco’s prior knowledge of the Packers, as he faced them when with the Browns, adds to his potential impact.

As Cincinnati seeks to salvage their season, Flacco’s performance will be critical, especially with Burrow sidelined for the foreseeable future. The Bengals hope he can help reverse their fortunes starting this weekend.