Posted on Oct 08

Bengals' Zac Taylor confirms: "The Bengals will start newly acquired QB Joe Flacco Sunday."

Posted Oct 8, 2025

The Cincinnati Bengals have acquired veteran quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns, who will start against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday.

Why it matters: This trade comes at a critical juncture for the Bengals, who are struggling with a 2-3 record and have lost their last three games under Jake Browning, who has thrown eight interceptions during this stretch.

Flacco’s experience could provide a stabilizing presence as the Bengals aim to revive their season.
With Joe Burrow still sidelined due to injury, Flacco represents a seasoned alternative capable of navigating high-pressure situations.

What’s new: The Bengals secured Flacco in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round draft pick and a 2026 fifth-round selection going to the Browns.

Flacco previously started for the Browns just four weeks ago against the Packers, leading his team to a narrow 13-10 victory.
His familiarity with the Packers' defensive schemes may offer the Bengals a strategic edge.

By the numbers: Flacco, now 40 years old, brings a wealth of experience to the Bengals.

In his last outing, he completed 60% of his passes, throwing for 170 yards and one touchdown against Green Bay.
Comparatively, Browning’s struggles were highlighted by a dismal completion rate and a disparity in touchdown-to-interception ratio since taking over the starting role.

Yes, but: While Flacco's credentials are impressive, questions remain about his ability to lead effectively at this stage in his career.

Many analysts believe that the transition from a backup role in Cleveland to a starter in Cincinnati could pose challenges, particularly regarding timing and chemistry with the Bengals' receiving corps.
Additionally, the pressure of an already rocky season may weigh heavily on Flacco's shoulders as he steps into this pivotal role.

What to watch: Fans should closely monitor how quickly Flacco can integrate himself into the Bengals’ offensive system, which has shown flashes of brilliance under Burrow.

Key matchups against the Packers’ defense will be crucial; how Flacco reads defenses and adjusts his play calling will determine the efficacy of the Bengal's aerial attack.
Look for potential adjustments in offensive schemes to cater to Flacco's strengths, such as utilizing more quick throws and play-action opportunities.

The bottom line: The Bengals decision to acquire Flacco highlights their urgent need for leadership and stability at the quarterback position as they navigate an uncertain season.

As they prepare to face the Packers, the outcome of this game could be pivotal not only for their playoff aspirations but also for the future of the franchise's quarterback strategy moving forward.

Bengals' Zac Taylor confirms: "The Bengals will start newly acquired QB Joe Flacco Sunday."

Alex Parker

Posted Oct 8, 2025

Flacco’s experience could provide a stabilizing presence as the Bengals aim to revive their season.

With Joe Burrow still sidelined due to injury, Flacco represents a seasoned alternative capable of navigating high-pressure situations.

What’s new: The Bengals secured Flacco in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round draft pick and a 2026 fifth-round selection going to the Browns.

Flacco previously started for the Browns just four weeks ago against the Packers, leading his team to a narrow 13-10 victory.

His familiarity with the Packers' defensive schemes may offer the Bengals a strategic edge.

By the numbers: Flacco, now 40 years old, brings a wealth of experience to the Bengals.

In his last outing, he completed 60% of his passes, throwing for 170 yards and one touchdown against Green Bay.

Comparatively, Browning’s struggles were highlighted by a dismal completion rate and a disparity in touchdown-to-interception ratio since taking over the starting role.

Yes, but: While Flacco's credentials are impressive, questions remain about his ability to lead effectively at this stage in his career.

Many analysts believe that the transition from a backup role in Cleveland to a starter in Cincinnati could pose challenges, particularly regarding timing and chemistry with the Bengals' receiving corps.

Additionally, the pressure of an already rocky season may weigh heavily on Flacco's shoulders as he steps into this pivotal role.

What to watch: Fans should closely monitor how quickly Flacco can integrate himself into the Bengals’ offensive system, which has shown flashes of brilliance under Burrow.

Key matchups against the Packers’ defense will be crucial; how Flacco reads defenses and adjusts his play calling will determine the efficacy of the Bengal's aerial attack.

Look for potential adjustments in offensive schemes to cater to Flacco's strengths, such as utilizing more quick throws and play-action opportunities.

The bottom line: The Bengals decision to acquire Flacco highlights their urgent need for leadership and stability at the quarterback position as they navigate an uncertain season.

As they prepare to face the Packers, the outcome of this game could be pivotal not only for their playoff aspirations but also for the future of the franchise's quarterback strategy moving forward.