Bengals Considering Veteran QB Joe Flacco as Burrow's Backup

Bengals looking to add experienced QB to support injury-prone starter Joe Burrow

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly interested in re-signing veteran quarterback Joe Flacco to serve as a backup to starter Joe Burrow. This move comes as the Bengals are concerned about Burrow's injury history, as he has only played a full season once in the last three years. Flacco, who has previous experience with the Bengals, would provide a reliable and experienced option to step in if Burrow gets injured again.

Why it matters

The Bengals' interest in Flacco as Burrow's backup highlights the team's growing concerns about their star quarterback's durability. Burrow's injury history could have significant implications for the Bengals' long-term success, and adding an experienced veteran like Flacco is a pragmatic move to provide insurance and stability at the quarterback position.

The details

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Bengals have "expressed interest in re-signing quarterback Joe Flacco." The team "believes he's a valuable backup who can be a viable starting option if Joe Burrow gets injured again." Flacco, a former Super Bowl MVP, has previous experience with the Bengals organization and would provide a reliable veteran presence behind the injury-prone Burrow.

  • Burrow has only played a full season once in the last three years.

The players

Joe Burrow

The Cincinnati Bengals' starting quarterback, who has struggled with injuries in recent seasons.

Joe Flacco

A veteran quarterback who has previously played for the Bengals and is being considered as a backup option to Burrow.

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What they’re saying

“The Bengals have expressed interest in re-signing quarterback Joe Flacco. They believe he's a valuable backup who can be a viable starting option if Joe Burrow gets injured again.”

— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

The Bengals will likely continue to evaluate their options at the backup quarterback position, with Flacco being a leading candidate to provide experienced depth behind the injury-prone Burrow.

The takeaway

The Bengals' interest in Flacco as Burrow's backup underscores the team's growing concerns about their star quarterback's durability. This move highlights the importance of having a reliable and experienced backup plan in the NFL, especially for teams with a history of injuries to their starting QB.