Bengals Projected to Pay $12M for Veteran Backup QB

Cincinnati faces tough decision on re-signing fan favorite Joe Flacco

Feb. 23, 2026 at 3:26pm

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The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a difficult decision this offseason regarding their backup quarterback position. According to ESPN's Bill Barnwell, veteran QB Joe Flacco is projected to receive a contract in the range of $6-12 million per year as a free agent. Flacco, a Pro Bowl selection in 2025, filled in admirably for starter Joe Burrow when he was injured last season, but the Bengals must weigh whether to re-sign Flacco at that price tag or rely on cheaper options like Jake Browning.

Why it matters

The Bengals' backup QB decision is crucial, as Flacco proved his value as an experienced and capable fill-in last season when Burrow was sidelined. However, committing $12 million annually to a backup QB could be a significant financial commitment that limits the team' s flexibility to address other roster needs, especially on the defensive side of the ball.

The details

Flacco, 41, was named to the Pro Bowl in 2025 after throwing for 1,664 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions in 9 games with the Bengals. He was brought in midseason to stabilize the offense when Burrow went down with an injury. Now a free agent, Flacco is projected by Barnwell to land a contract in the $6-12 million per year range, which would be a sizable investment for a backup QB.

  • Flacco was named to the Pro Bowl roster in 2025.
  • Flacco filled in for the injured Joe Burrow for part of the 2025 season.

The players

Joe Burrow

The starting quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Joe Flacco

A veteran quarterback who served as the backup for the Bengals in 2025 and is now a free agent.

Jake Browning

A quarterback who has served as the Bengals' backup in the past, but struggled when called upon.

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What they’re saying

“If the Bengals want to bring Flacco back this offseason, Barnwell projects that Cincinnati will have to set aside at least $6 million, and up to $12 million to re-sign him.”

— Bill Barnwell, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Bengals will need to decide in the coming weeks whether to re-sign Flacco or look to a cheaper option to back up Burrow for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Bengals face a difficult decision on their backup QB, as retaining the experienced and reliable Flacco would come at a significant cost, potentially limiting their ability to address other roster needs. However, the team' s experience with Browning' s struggles when called upon last season may make Flacco' s higher price tag worth it to ensure they have a capable backup behind Burrow.