Bengals Veteran QB Joe Flacco Open to Return, With One Catch

Flacco would consider backing up Joe Burrow again, but only if he can't find a starting job elsewhere.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco is open to re-signing with the Cincinnati Bengals this offseason, but only if he can't find an opportunity to compete for a starting job elsewhere. Flacco filled in admirably for the injured Joe Burrow in 2025, making the Pro Bowl, but the Bengals may need to find a new backup QB if Flacco leaves in free agency.

Why it matters

The Bengals will need to address their backup quarterback situation this offseason, especially if Flacco departs in free agency. Maintaining stability behind star QB Joe Burrow is crucial for the team's Super Bowl aspirations.

The details

Flacco played well for the Bengals in 2025 after Burrow went down with a turf toe injury, throwing for 1,664 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions. However, the veteran QB is seeking an opportunity to compete for a starting job, and may look to sign elsewhere if that's not an option in Cincinnati.

  • Flacco joined the Bengals in October 2025 after Burrow's injury.
  • Flacco made the Pro Bowl for his performance with the Bengals in 2025.

The players

Joe Flacco

A veteran NFL quarterback who filled in admirably for the injured Joe Burrow with the Bengals in 2025, making the Pro Bowl.

Joe Burrow

The Bengals' star quarterback who missed time in 2025 due to a turf toe injury.

Jake Browning

The Bengals' current backup quarterback who is set to hit free agency.

Sean Clifford

The only other quarterback currently on the Bengals' roster behind Burrow.

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What they’re saying

“Veteran QB Joe Flacco, who will be a free agent Monday, wants an opportunity to at least compete for a starting job. But if he's a backup, sources say, Flacco would strongly consider a return to Cincinnati, where he filled in for Joe Burrow last fall and made his first Pro Bowl.”

— Tom Pelissero, NFL Network Reporter (NFL Network)

What’s next

The Bengals will need to decide if they want to re-sign Flacco as Burrow's backup, or look to address the position through free agency or the draft.

The takeaway

Flacco's potential return to Cincinnati hinges on his ability to find a starting job elsewhere. The Bengals will need to weigh their options at backup QB, as maintaining stability behind Burrow is crucial for their Super Bowl aspirations.