The Bengals finished 6-11, with Joe Burrow limited to eight games and Trey Hendrickson sidelined for seven. Cincinnati did manage a midseason move to acquire Flacco from the Cleveland Browns, and he started six games, earning a Pro Bowl nod by helping keep the offense afloat while Burrow recovered.
ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler reported that Cincinnati intends to re-sign Flacco, viewing him as a valuable backup who could step in as a bridge to a potential starter if Burrow is injured again. Flacco will reach free agency, and he could have attractive options beyond Cincinnati.
Beyond Flacco, the Bengals are positioned to be active in free agency, particularly on defense after posting the NFL’s third-worst scoring defense. Quotably, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport outlined that Burrow is not expected to be traded, but his comments could spur aggressive offseason moves to support the franchise quarterback.
Cincinnati has already taken steps to stabilize the offense by re-signing receiver Tee Higgins and extending Ja’Marr Chase, while also adding Hendrickson on a one-year deal. With an eye toward strengthening the defense and maintaining Burrow’s supporting cast, Flacco’s future with Cincinnati remains a focal point as the team plots its 2026 outlook.
