The Cincinnati Bengals are heading into the offseason with a potential backup quarterback conundrum. Last season, Jake Browning struggled to find his rhythm, prompting the Bengals to make an unusual in-season trade for veteran Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns. Flacco, despite his experience and solid play, only managed to secure one win.
Flacco seems eager to continue playing, but he understands that with Joe Burrow firmly at the helm, his chances in Cincinnati are slim unless an injury occurs. This likely means Flacco will be looking for opportunities elsewhere where he can compete for a starting role.
Enter Sawyer Robertson, the Baylor Bears quarterback who recently visited with the Bengals at the NFL Scouting Combine. Robertson is a classic mid-to-late round prospect with backup potential.
He shows glimpses of promise with his ability to deliver touch passes and execute back shoulder throws with precision. His size and mobility also add value, giving him the ability to gain extra yards on the ground-an essential trait in today’s NFL.
However, Robertson's journey to NFL readiness isn't without hurdles. His throwing motion is sluggish, which won't cut it at the pro level. Consistency in mechanics is another area of concern, leading to accuracy issues, along with challenges in reading through progressions.
These are aspects that NFL coaching can certainly refine. Fortunately for Robertson, the Bengals don’t require him to compete for a starting position immediately. Instead, he can focus on honing his skills and developing his game.
Of course, this plan hinges on Burrow staying healthy, which has been a concern in the past. While Robertson isn’t the immediate answer to the backup quarterback dilemma, he has the potential to grow into that role.
However, expecting him to be ready by 2026 might be a stretch. The Bengals will need to keep their options open as they address this critical position.