The Cincinnati Bengals are making a major change under center. Head coach Zac Taylor announced that veteran quarterback Joe Flacco will start Sunday’s matchup against the Green Bay Packers, just a day after joining the team from the Cleveland Browns. The move comes amid a rough stretch for backup Jake Browning, who struggled in recent outings with turnovers and inconsistent play.
Taylor said the decision was based on both experience and fit. Flacco, a 39-year-old Super Bowl MVP, brings leadership and familiarity with offensive systems similar to Cincinnati’s. “You don’t have to change much with Joe,” Taylor told reporters, noting that the veteran’s comfort with pro-style offenses will allow the Bengals to keep their playbook intact while adjusting to his strengths.
Flacco already secured a victory against Green Bay earlier this season while with Cleveland, completing 21 passes for 142 yards and an interception in that game. He’s expected to take all first-team reps during practice this week as he builds chemistry with receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
For the Bengals, sitting at 2–3 and fighting to stay in the AFC playoff race, the switch represents both a calculated risk and a potential spark. Flacco’s veteran presence could steady an offense searching for rhythm while star quarterback Joe Burrow continues his recovery from injury.
