Posted on Oct 07

Zac Taylor on Bengals' QB situation: "We're going to look at all personnel."

Posted Oct 7, 2025

The Cincinnati Bengals have acquired veteran quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns, a move aimed at addressing their ongoing struggles in the wake of Joe Burrow's injury.

Why it matters: This trade is significant for the Bengals, who are currently 2-3 and have suffered three consecutive losses. With Burrow sidelined, the team’s playoff aspirations hang in the balance, making Flacco’s experience critical to stabilizing the offense.

The Bengals have been outscored 113-37 during their losing streak, highlighting their need for more reliable quarterback play.
Flacco, a seasoned NFL veteran, brings a wealth of experience that could help turn the tide for Cincinnati.

What’s new: Flacco joins the Bengals after a productive stint with the Browns, where he was named the Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year in 2023.

In just five games, Flacco passed for 1,616 yards and 13 touchdowns, leading Cleveland to a commendable 4-1 record before being replaced by rookie Dillon Gabriel.
His performance in earlier seasons, including a solid run with the Indianapolis Colts where he completed 65.3% of his passes for 1,761 yards and 12 touchdowns over eight games, demonstrates his capability as a starting quarterback.

Yes, but: While Flacco offers immediate experience, questions remain about the overall effectiveness of the Bengals' offensive scheme without Burrow.

Current starter Jake Browning has thrown eight interceptions in four games, including three starts, raising concerns about ball security and decision-making under pressure.
Zac Taylor, head coach of the Bengals, acknowledged the turnovers and indicated a need to evaluate personnel, stating, "We're going to look at all personnel to make sure we're doing the right thing."

What to watch: As Flacco acclimates to the Bengals' system, fans should monitor how quickly he can integrate into the team's offensive strategy.

The Bengals traditionally employ a spread offense that relies heavily on quick throws and downfield passing; Flacco’s strong arm and experience may complement these tactics well.
Watch for adjustments in play-calling as the coaching staff seeks to leverage Flacco’s skills while mitigating Browning's recent struggles.

What’s next: The Bengals will likely turn to Flacco as their starter in upcoming games, testing whether his presence can reverse their fortunes.

Cincinnati’s upcoming schedule features crucial matchups that could define their season, making effective quarterback play indispensable.
If Flacco performs well, he may not only stabilize the current situation but also earn a longer-term role in the franchise.

The bottom line: Acquiring Joe Flacco signals the Bengals’ commitment to salvaging their season amid adversity, with the hope that his veteran leadership can guide the team back to contention.

Zac Taylor on Bengals' QB situation: "We're going to look at all personnel."

Alex Parker

Posted Oct 7, 2025

The Cincinnati Bengals have acquired veteran quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns, a move aimed at addressing their ongoing struggles in the wake of Joe Burrow's injury.

The Bengals have been outscored 113-37 during their losing streak, highlighting their need for more reliable quarterback play.

Flacco, a seasoned NFL veteran, brings a wealth of experience that could help turn the tide for Cincinnati.

What’s new: Flacco joins the Bengals after a productive stint with the Browns, where he was named the Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year in 2023.

In just five games, Flacco passed for 1,616 yards and 13 touchdowns, leading Cleveland to a commendable 4-1 record before being replaced by rookie Dillon Gabriel.

His performance in earlier seasons, including a solid run with the Indianapolis Colts where he completed 65.3% of his passes for 1,761 yards and 12 touchdowns over eight games, demonstrates his capability as a starting quarterback.

Yes, but: While Flacco offers immediate experience, questions remain about the overall effectiveness of the Bengals' offensive scheme without Burrow.

Current starter Jake Browning has thrown eight interceptions in four games, including three starts, raising concerns about ball security and decision-making under pressure.

Zac Taylor, head coach of the Bengals, acknowledged the turnovers and indicated a need to evaluate personnel, stating, "We're going to look at all personnel to make sure we're doing the right thing."

What to watch: As Flacco acclimates to the Bengals' system, fans should monitor how quickly he can integrate into the team's offensive strategy.

The Bengals traditionally employ a spread offense that relies heavily on quick throws and downfield passing; Flacco’s strong arm and experience may complement these tactics well.

Watch for adjustments in play-calling as the coaching staff seeks to leverage Flacco’s skills while mitigating Browning's recent struggles.

What’s next: The Bengals will likely turn to Flacco as their starter in upcoming games, testing whether his presence can reverse their fortunes.

Cincinnati’s upcoming schedule features crucial matchups that could define their season, making effective quarterback play indispensable.

If Flacco performs well, he may not only stabilize the current situation but also earn a longer-term role in the franchise.

The bottom line: Acquiring Joe Flacco signals the Bengals’ commitment to salvaging their season amid adversity, with the hope that his veteran leadership can guide the team back to contention.