​In an offseason crowded with notable defensive additions, Cincinnati Bengals fans might have overlooked the team’s decision to re-sign backup quarterback and veteran Joe Flacco, according to James Rapien of The First Word. “Probably the most underrated move of the offseason was bringing back Joe Flacco,” Rapien wrote in a post highlighted on June 25, 2026. Flacco’s poise after stepping in for injured Joe Burrow late last season, and his subsequent trade to Cincinnati, helped persuade the Bengals to keep him for 2026. While they could have treated Flacco as a stopgap in 2025 and pursued a younger successor, Rapien argues that Flacco’s presence could be crucial if Burrow were sidelined again, given the pressure the Bengals may face this season.
Last year, Flacco completed 60.3 percent of his passes for 2,479 yards, with a 15-10 TD-to-INT ratio split between the Browns and Bengals. In Cincinnati, he threw 13 touchdowns to four interceptions, finishing with a 1-5 record as the starter. One standout performance came in the Bengals’ 33-31 Thursday night win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Cincinnati then reeled off victories against the Miami Dolphins and the Arizona Cardinals, both games Burrow started.
Flacco is also set to be featured in Netflix’s Quarterback documentary, something Rapien said he’s eager to watch for insights into Flacco’s handling of last season, as well as behind-the-scenes looks at Burrow and pivotal games, such as the 39-38 loss to the Jets that dropped Cincinnati to 3-5 and reshaped the season’s trajectory. The Bengals’ recent moves have emphasized talent and leadership, with players like Dexter Lawrence and Bryan Cook receiving praise for their locker-room impact in a short time with the team. While Flacco may not be the most gifted quarterback on Cincinnati’s roster, his veteran presence and stability could be the best fit for the team as they head into 2026. If Burrow misses time, Flacco’s familiarity with the roster and absence of a need for a midseason trade could position Cincinnati to weather an absence more effectively.