Flacco Heads to Cincinnati: A Look at the Bengals’ QB Move and Browns’ Shifting Landscape
Joe Flacco is on the move again, this time joining the Cincinnati Bengals as a free agent. The veteran quarterback was released by the Cleveland Browns earlier this week, creating a ripple effect in both organizations. This move comes as the Bengals look to bolster their quarterback room, while the browns navigate their own post-Flacco strategy.
Why the Bengals Pursued Flacco
Cincinnati currently sits second in the AFC North, trailing only the Pittsburgh steelers. However, they recognize the need for experienced depth at the quarterback position. Flacco, despite his recent struggles, brings a wealth of knowledge and a Super Bowl pedigree to the Bengals’ locker room.
You’ll recall Flacco’s Super Bowl XLVII MVP performance against the San Francisco 49ers with the Baltimore Ravens. this experience is invaluable, especially as the Bengals prepare for two upcoming matchups against the Ravens, including a Thanksgiving night showdown in Baltimore.
Flacco’s Browns Tenure: A Brief Recap
Flacco was brought in this offseason to provide veteran leadership to a Browns quarterback room featuring rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. He started the first four games of the season for Cleveland, completing 58.1% of his passes for 815 yards, two touchdowns, and six interceptions.
Sadly, his performance didn’t meet expectations, ranking 31st out of 32 qualifying quarterbacks in Total QBR. Ultimately, the Browns opted to move forward with Gabriel as their starter.
What This Means for the browns
Flacco’s departure opens the door for Shedeur Sanders to possibly move into the No. 2 quarterback role. Sanders has served as the team’s emergency third-string quarterback for the first five games.
Interestingly, the Browns listed Sanders as their No. 2 quarterback on Tuesday’s unofficial depth chart for their upcoming game against the Steelers. This suggests a growing confidence in the rookie’s progress.
Here’s a rapid look at the Browns’ current quarterback situation:
* Starter: Dillon Gabriel
* Backup: Shedeur Sanders
* Practice Squad: Bailey Zappe
* Injured Reserve: Deshaun Watson (Achilles injury)
A Full-Circle Moment for Flacco
This move is particularly noteworthy as it means Flacco will have played for every team in the AFC North except the Steelers. He spent 11 seasons with the Ravens,achieving significant success and cementing his place in NFL history.
Now, he’ll aim to contribute to a division rival, adding another chapter to his already extensive career.
Looking Ahead
The Bengals hope Flacco can provide stability and guidance as they push for a playoff berth.ESPN’s Football Power Index currently gives Cincinnati a 9.2% chance of reaching the postseason.
Simultaneously occurring, the browns will be closely watching Sanders’ progress as they continue to evaluate their quarterback options. This situation highlights the dynamic nature of the NFL and the constant need for teams to adapt and adjust.
this reshuffling of quarterbacks in the AFC north promises to be a compelling storyline to follow throughout the remainder of the season. You can expect continued developments as teams navigate injuries, performance, and the pursuit of a championship.
