Mike Tomlin Slams Browns for Trading Joe Flacco

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin took a few thinly veiled shots at Browns general manager Andrew Berry for trading Joe Flacco to an AFC North rival. Yet, beneath the sarcasm was a tone of respect — and frustration — after watching the 40-year-old quarterback carve up his defense in Cincinnati’s 33–31 victory on Thursday night.

For a player once viewed as expendable by Cleveland, Flacco looked anything but. His vintage performance — 342 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions — was a flashback to his “Flacco is elite” days during the Ravens’ 2012 Super Bowl run. The Bengals (3–4) snapped a four-game losing streak and reignited their playoff hopes in what may be the defining win of their season.

A Trade That Changed the AFC North Landscape

The Browns’ decision to trade Flacco within the division baffled many. Cleveland, more focused on stockpiling draft picks than competing in 2025, may have unknowingly altered the AFC North race. With the Steelers dropping to 4–2 and the Bengals regaining momentum, the division has suddenly become wide open.

Upcoming home games against the Jets and Bears — followed by another meeting with Pittsburgh — present a golden opportunity for Cincinnati to climb back into contention, especially with Joe Burrow’s potential return looming.

Team Effort Sparks the Turnaround

While Flacco was the centerpiece, Thursday’s win was a total team performance. Running back Chase Brown delivered a season-high 108 rushing yards — more than doubling his previous best — as the Bengals’ ground game finally came to life after averaging just 56.7 yards per contest entering the night.

Cincinnati’s defense also played a key role, intercepting Aaron Rodgers twice in the first half to keep the Steelers from building momentum. Even the offensive line stepped up, allowing only two sacks while giving Flacco the time he needed to pick apart Pittsburgh’s secondary.

Vintage Flacco Leads the Charge

Flacco’s leadership and precision were on full display during the final drive. Down by one, he hit Ja’Marr Chase for an 18-yard gain and Tee Higgins for 28 yards to set up Evan McPherson’s game-winning 36-yard field goal with seven seconds remaining.

Chase finished with 16 catches for 161 yards and a touchdown — breaking his own franchise record — while Higgins added six receptions for 96 yards and a score. “It’s honestly good having him here for us,” Chase said. “He came in, doing his thing and showing off for us.”

Hope Restored in Cincinnati

The Bengals’ offense looked familiar — fast, balanced, and confident — reminiscent of last season’s Joe Burrow-led unit. Zac Taylor praised his new quarterback’s composure and preparation. “It’s easy for him,” Taylor said. “And it’s not, because he’s putting in the work. He’s so experienced in this situation.”

Just over a week ago, Flacco was driving down Interstate 75, learning Taylor’s playbook over the phone. Now, he’s the reason Cincinnati believes again.

“I can’t wait to talk to my wife tonight and just hear it in her voice,” Flacco said. “Talking to [family] reminds you how special this is.”

The Bengals were left for dead after a four-game skid. But thanks to one ageless quarterback and a team rediscovering its identity, there’s hope again in the Queen City — and maybe, just maybe, enough magic left in Joe Flacco’s arm to make a playoff push.