In 2026, the Cincinnati Bengals are sticking with a familiar face at backup quarterback, as Joe Flacco returns on a one-year deal. At 41, Flacco embraced the role during a recent press conference, though he admitted he'd jump at a starting opportunity if it came his way.
Flacco showed last season that he's still got some spark, earning his first Pro Bowl nod after stepping in for an injured Joe Burrow in six games. He also made four starts for the Cleveland Browns, marking his busiest season since 2017 with the Ravens.
"Believe me, I wish I was a guy somewhere," Flacco said. "I think teams are dumb for not having me be that guy, but it is what it is.
I'm not going to let them or it get me down. I'm going to be the person I am and just approach football the way I always have."
While Flacco didn't exactly set the league on fire in 2025-ranking 25th in QBR and going 2-8 with the Bengals and Browns-he remained as effective as he's been post-Ravens. His 60.3% completion rate, 2,479 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions weren't enough for a starting gig in 2026, but the Bengals saw enough to keep him as insurance for Burrow, who has missed significant time in three of his six seasons.
"Who knows what those teams were thinking, anyway?" Flacco mused.
"Whether I was on their radar or not, I have no idea. It's not really for me to decide.
I can get caught up in all that and say 'Why not me?' and all that and be bitter about it.
"Listen, maybe part of that does motivate me to still do what I'm doing. I probably do feel that way.
I feel like I have unfinished business. That's part of why I'm still here playing and doing all those things.
Not being one of those guys to go sign somewhere, yeah, it pisses me off a little bit."
Several teams could have considered Flacco as a bridge to a younger QB or a veteran presence to boost competition. Instead, they found other paths.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins signed Malik Willis to a three-year, $67.5 million deal to prove he's starting material. However, with a lack of weapons around him, it might have been wiser to save some cash and go with Flacco if they were already planning to punt the 2026 season.
New York Jets
The Jets needed a stopgap QB to prep for a future draft pick. Flacco could've fit that role, but with Geno Smith available for a reunion, they opted for familiarity.
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals are committed to a rebuild and aiming for a top pick in the 2027 draft. They chose Jacoby Brissett, whose stats were nearly identical to Flacco's, saving a few million dollars in the process.
Pittsburgh Steelers
If Aaron Rodgers returns, it’ll likely be with the Steelers due to his connection with Mike McCarthy. Flacco and Rodgers are similar at this stage, but Rodgers has the edge with the existing relationship.
Cleveland Browns
Flacco started 2025 with the Browns before being traded. Now, they're focused on developing young QBs Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, despite their struggles.
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons are aiming to win in 2026 with Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. as their QB options. Flacco wouldn't fit their long-term plans.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders are all-in on rookie Fernando Mendoza, the projected No. 1 pick. They released Geno Smith, signaling their commitment to Mendoza, making Flacco an afterthought.
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings made a savvy move by signing Kyler Murray for the veteran minimum, potentially solving their QB issues. With Murray in play, Flacco wasn’t considered.
Flacco's journey continues as he embraces his role with the Bengals, ready to step in if needed, while the rest of the league moves on with different plans.