Joe Flacco Returns to Bengals for 19th NFL Season
CINCINNATI – Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco is returning to the Cincinnati Bengals for his 19th NFL season, according to multiple reports surfacing Tuesday. The move reunites Flacco with a team he briefly called home last season while Joe Burrow recovered from injury, and provides a familiar presence behind center as Burrow continues his rehabilitation. The Bengals have not yet officially confirmed the signing, but reports indicate a one-year deal is in place.
Flacco, 41, initially joined the Bengals via trade from the Cleveland Browns in October 2025. Despite going 1-5 as a starter during his stint in Cincinnati, he demonstrated he could still effectively manage the offense, throwing for over 200 yards in four of his six starts and contributing to an average of more than 27 points per game for the Bengals during that period. His experience proved valuable as the team navigated Burrow’s absence.
A Familiar Face Back in the Queen City
The decision to bring Flacco back wasn’t necessarily about replacing Burrow, but rather providing a reliable and experienced backup. The Bengals clearly valued his leadership and ability to step in when needed. Flacco’s familiarity with the offensive system, even after a brief period, will likely expedite his integration back into the team. This is particularly crucial given the complexities of modern NFL offenses.
Flacco’s career has spanned nearly two decades, with stops at the Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, New York Jets (twice), Philadelphia Eagles, Cleveland Browns (twice), Indianapolis Colts, and now, a second stint with the Bengals. He remains best known for leading the Ravens to a Super Bowl XLVII victory in 2013, earning MVP honors in the process. Throughout his career, he has amassed 48,176 passing yards, 272 touchdowns, and 172 interceptions, and holds a 10-6 record in playoff games.
Beyond Flacco: Other NFL News
The news of Flacco’s return comes amidst a flurry of activity around the league as teams prepare for the upcoming season. Several other notable transactions and updates have emerged in recent days.
Tua Tagovailoa Embraces Fresh Start with Falcons
Newly acquired Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is focused on a new beginning, acknowledging that his performance in 2025 didn’t meet expectations. Tagovailoa, speaking recently, refused to dwell on the circumstances surrounding his departure from the Miami Dolphins, instead emphasizing his commitment to improvement. “If you appear at last season, my level of play wasn’t up to the level I had reached these last three years, since signing my new contract. I just need to play better. That’s it. There’s no other way to say it,” Tagovailoa stated. He expressed optimism about the future, believing 2026 will be a more successful year.
Falcons Add Running Back Depth with Brian Robinson
The Falcons are bolstering their running back room by signing Brian Robinson to a one-year, $2.5 million deal, according to NFL Media. Robinson will serve as the primary backup to Bijan Robinson, filling the void left by Tyler Allgeier. Robinson’s 2025 season was disrupted by a mid-season trade to the San Francisco 49ers, where he saw limited action (92 carries in 17 games). Prior to that, he had consistently surpassed 700 rushing yards and scored 15 touchdowns across his first three seasons in the NFL.
Maxx Crosby Trade Situation Remains Fluid
The potential trade of Las Vegas Raiders defensive conclude Maxx Crosby continues to generate headlines, though a deal is far from certain. Initial reports indicated a trade to the Baltimore Ravens was in progress, but ESPN reported that Baltimore ultimately canceled the deal due to concerns about Crosby’s long-term health. Sources indicate the Ravens believe Crosby can play in 2026, but have doubts about his durability beyond that, citing a degenerative knee issue. Despite the setback, multiple teams reportedly remain interested in acquiring Crosby, but the Raiders are reportedly seeking a significant return.
Steelers’ Michael Pittman Offers Support to Aaron Rodgers
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman is taking a patient approach regarding the status of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is recovering from an Achilles tendon injury. Pittman, recently acquired from the Indianapolis Colts, emphasized the importance of giving Rodgers space and time to make a decision about his future. “I haven’t talked to Aaron. I’m trying to deliver him space. He needs that, he likes to recharge. I didn’t desire to just sign with him, throw him in the spotlight and be like, ‘Hey Aaron, what’s up?’ Let him have his time. He and his wife have some things to figure out and then he’ll decide if he wants to come back or not,” Pittman said in an interview with Kay Adams.
Mike Tomlin Explores Television Opportunities
After 19 seasons as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Mike Tomlin is reportedly exploring opportunities in television. According to Front Office Sports, Tomlin has hired an agent to seek a broadcasting role. Given his extensive experience and engaging personality, he is expected to be a highly sought-after candidate. It remains to be seen whether Tomlin will take a full break from coaching or follow the path of former Steelers coach Bill Cowher, who transitioned to television and did not return to the sidelines.
Other Notable Signings
Several other players have recently signed with new teams, including Robert Jones (G, 49ers), Foster Sarell (OL, Commanders), Shemar Jean-Charles (CB, Seahawks), Shelby Harris (DT, Giants), Derion Kendrick (CB, Cowboys), Zach Triner (LS, Giants), Cam Jones (LB, Giants), Terrell Burgess (S, Saints), Trevor Siemian (QB, Falcons), Fred Johnson (T, Eagles), Elijah Moore (WR, Eagles), and Zach Wilson (QB, Saints).
The Bengals’ decision to bring back Joe Flacco provides stability at the quarterback position while Joe Burrow continues his recovery. The veteran’s experience and familiarity with the team make him a valuable asset as Cincinnati prepares for the 2026 season. The team will next hold organized team activities in May, providing a first look at the updated roster and offensive schemes.
