The Indianapolis Colts just got hit with another tough break.
Daniel Jones is out for the season with a torn Achilles, adding to the Colts’ already complicated quarterback situation. With Anthony Richardson still sidelined, that leaves Riley Leonard as the next man up. Leonard’s shown promise, but he's a rookie with no NFL starts, and the Colts find themselves in a tight spot as the playoff picture begins to take shape.
Enter a familiar name: Joe Flacco.
Yes, that Joe Flacco - the veteran quarterback who’s been bouncing around the AFC like a seasoned relief pitcher. He had a stint with the Colts in 2024, and this season alone, he’s suited up for both the Browns and the Bengals. Now, with Cincinnati’s playoff hopes hanging by a thread and Joe Burrow working his way back, there’s chatter that Flacco could be on the move again - potentially back to Indianapolis.
A post from a sports medicine professional on X summed up the growing speculation: “Waiting patiently for tomorrow’s ‘Joe Flacco and the Bengals have mutually agreed to part ways. Flacco intends to sign with the Colts on Tuesday’ notification.”
It’s not official, but it tracks.
The Browns originally sent Flacco to Cincinnati to serve as a stopgap after Burrow’s injury. Now, with Burrow nearing a return and Jake Browning already in the mix, the Bengals may not need Flacco much longer. And in a league where QB depth can make or break a season, the Colts could be an ideal landing spot.
It’s not just about filling a roster spot - it’s about stability. The Colts are still in the hunt, and adding a veteran like Flacco could be the difference between staying competitive or fading down the stretch. He’s not the long-term answer, but he’s a guy who’s won playoff games, understands NFL defenses, and can keep the offense on schedule.
Of course, trades are off the table - the deadline has come and gone. But if the Bengals were to release Flacco, the Colts could sign him outright. No compensation, no strings attached.
It would be a full-circle moment for Flacco, potentially finishing his career where he once helped stabilize things during another quarterback crisis. And for the Colts, it might just be the lifeline they need to keep their postseason hopes alive.