Veteran QB Josh Johnson Signs with Bengals for Third Stint

The 40-year-old journeyman quarterback will return to Cincinnati for the third time in his career.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 11:51pm

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Veteran NFL quarterback Josh Johnson has signed a one-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals, marking his third stint with the team. Johnson, who will turn 40 in May, has had an extensive career playing for numerous teams across the NFL, UFL, AAF, and XFL since being drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2008.

Why it matters

Johnson's signing with the Bengals highlights the veteran quarterback's resilience and adaptability, as he continues to find opportunities in the league despite his advanced age. The move also provides depth and experience to the Bengals' quarterback room as they look to build on their recent success.

The details

Over his 14-year professional career, Johnson has played for 18 different teams, including two previous stints with the Bengals in 2013 and 2015. While he has only 11 career NFL starts and a 2-9 record as a starter, Johnson has shown the ability to be a capable backup, throwing for 2,669 yards, 14 touchdowns, and 18 interceptions. He also had success in the XFL in 2020, leading the league in passing.

  • Johnson will turn 40 years old in May 2026.
  • Johnson previously played for the Bengals in 2013 and 2015.
  • Johnson signed a one-year deal with the Bengals in March 2026.

The players

Josh Johnson

A veteran NFL quarterback who has played for numerous teams since being drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2008.

Cincinnati Bengals

An NFL team based in Cincinnati, Ohio, that has signed veteran quarterback Josh Johnson to a one-year deal.

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What’s next

The Bengals will look to Johnson to provide veteran leadership and experience in the quarterback room as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.

The takeaway

Josh Johnson's signing with the Bengals for a third time highlights his resilience and adaptability as a journeyman quarterback in the NFL. Despite his advanced age, Johnson continues to find opportunities to contribute to teams, demonstrating the value of veteran depth and experience in the league.