Veteran QB Josh Johnson Signs with Bengals for Third Stint

The well-traveled quarterback returns to Cincinnati after previous stints in 2013 and 2019.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 5:19pm

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The Cincinnati Bengals have signed veteran quarterback Josh Johnson to a one-year deal, marking his third stint with the team. The 39-year-old Johnson has played for over a dozen NFL teams since being drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2008, including previous stops in Cincinnati in 2013 and 2019.

Why it matters

Johnson provides experienced quarterback depth behind starter Joe Burrow, who is coming off an MVP season. With backup Sean Clifford also on the roster, the Bengals now have a veteran presence to mentor the younger QBs and provide insurance in case of injury.

The details

Over his 14-year NFL career, Johnson has appeared in 50 regular-season games with 11 starts, most recently with the Washington Commanders in 2025. He also has playoff experience, filling in for an injured Brock Purdy in the 2023 NFC Championship game for the San Francisco 49ers.

  • Johnson was drafted by the Buccaneers in 2008.
  • He previously played for the Bengals in 2013 and 2019.
  • The Bengals signed Johnson to a one-year deal on March 14, 2026.

The players

Josh Johnson

A 39-year-old quarterback who has spent time with over a dozen NFL teams since being drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2008.

Joe Burrow

The Bengals' starting quarterback, coming off an MVP season.

Sean Clifford

The Bengals' backup quarterback behind Burrow.

Joe Flacco

A veteran quarterback who played for the Bengals in 2025 but is currently a free agent.

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What they’re saying

“The well-traveled Josh Johnson is traveling back to Cincinnati.”

— Mike Florio (nbcsports.com)

What’s next

The Bengals will look to integrate Johnson into their quarterback room and evaluate his role as a veteran mentor and potential backup to Burrow.

The takeaway

The Bengals continue to prioritize quarterback depth and experience, bringing back the well-traveled Johnson for his third stint in Cincinnati as insurance behind their star QB Burrow.