Why Joe Flacco, Not Trey Hendrickson, Should Be the Bengals’ Top Priority This Offseason
The Cincinnati Bengals have a long to-do list this offseason-and most of it lives on the defensive side of the ball. From pass rush to linebacker depth, from the interior defensive line to the secondary, there’s no shortage of needs. The defense, as currently constructed, needs a serious overhaul.
But here’s the twist: despite the glaring holes on defense, the Bengals’ most important free agent decision might not be on that side of the ball at all. It might be Joe Flacco.
Yes, that Joe Flacco-41 years old, Super Bowl MVP, and still slinging it. While the Bengals face the likely departure of Trey Hendrickson, their top edge rusher, the case for re-signing Flacco is stronger than it might appear at first glance. Let’s break it down.
The Backup QB Lesson Cincinnati Can’t Ignore
The 2025 season delivered a harsh reminder: when Joe Burrow goes down, the Bengals need a reliable Plan B. Jake Browning had his shot and struggled mightily.
The offense sputtered. The rhythm was off.
Drives stalled. Wins slipped away.
Enter Flacco. When he stepped in, the offense found its footing again.
He didn’t just manage games-he stabilized the entire unit. The Bengals didn’t suddenly become world-beaters, but they were competitive.
And with even average defensive play, they probably would’ve added a few more wins to the column.
That kind of impact, especially from a backup quarterback, is rare. And it’s valuable-really valuable.
Familiarity Matters
Here’s the thing: the Bengals don’t just need a backup quarterback. They need this backup quarterback.
Flacco already knows the offense. He’s built chemistry with the receivers.
He’s been in the building, in the locker room, in the huddle. That familiarity matters, especially when your starter has a history of injuries.
Could the Bengals go out and sign another veteran backup? Sure. But why start over when the guy who already proved he can keep the offense afloat is right there, ready to run it back for a 19th NFL season?
Hendrickson’s Likely Exit-and What It Means
Now, let’s talk about Trey Hendrickson. He’s been a key piece of this defense for years, but signs point to him being on his way out. And while that’s a blow to the pass rush, it’s not entirely unexpected.
The Bengals have younger options in the pipeline and could use the draft or free agency to fill that void. Plus, Hendrickson’s departure could bring a compensatory draft pick-potentially a third- or fourth-rounder-which would help soften the loss.
That’s not the case with Flacco. If he walks, the Bengals don’t get a pick. They just lose a stabilizing presence behind Burrow, and they’re back to square one in the backup quarterback department.
The Bottom Line
The Bengals' defense needs work-no question. But re-signing Joe Flacco isn’t about ignoring those needs. It’s about protecting the most important investment this franchise has: Joe Burrow.
When Burrow is healthy, the Bengals are contenders. When he’s not, they need someone who can keep the ship steady. Flacco proved he can do just that.
He’s not just a stopgap. He’s insurance.
He’s experience. He’s already in the system.
And he might be the most irreplaceable free agent on Cincinnati’s board this offseason.
So while fans might clamor for splashy defensive signings or lament the possible loss of Hendrickson, don’t overlook the value of keeping No. 5 in stripes. If 2026 is going to be a bounce-back year for the Bengals, it might just start with a 41-year-old quarterback who still has something left in the tank.