Joe Flacco Returns to Cincinnati Bengals on One-Year Deal
The Cincinnati Bengals have re-signed quarterback Joe Flacco to a one-year contract, providing insurance behind starter Joe Burrow. The deal is worth up to $9 million with incentives, according to Flacco’s agent, Joe Linta ESPN.
Flacco’s Role in 2025
Flacco joined the Bengals mid-season in 2025 after being traded from the Cleveland Browns, along with a 2026 sixth-round pick, in exchange for a 2026 fifth-round pick ESPN. He stepped in as the starter while Joe Burrow was sidelined with a turf toe injury and Jake Browning struggled.
Despite only winning one game as a starter, Flacco demonstrated a level of play that kept the Bengals competitive. In nine appearances, he completed 61.7% of his passes for 1,664 yards, 13 touchdowns, and four interceptions ESPN. He even threw for a career-high 470 yards against the Chicago Bears while playing with a sprained AC joint ESPN.
Browning’s Departure and Flacco’s Appeal
Jake Browning, who was benched for Flacco during the 2025 season, has since signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ESPN. The Bengals reportedly felt Browning’s arm strength and field vision diminished before the trade for Flacco Bengals Wire.
While Flacco expressed a desire to potentially start elsewhere in 2026, he also found the prospect of returning to Cincinnati appealing ESPN.
A Veteran Presence
Entering his 19th NFL season, Flacco has played for the Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, Indianapolis Colts, Cleveland Browns, and now, twice for the Cincinnati Bengals ESPN. He has passed for 48,176 yards with 272 touchdown passes and 172 interceptions throughout his career ESPN. He was also named a replacement in this year’s Pro Bowl Games, his first Pro Bowl appearance in 18 seasons ESPN.
The Bengals also signed Josh Johnson this offseason, but Flacco is expected to be the primary backup to Burrow ESPN.