'They Weren’t Intending To Trade for a Quarterback': NFL Insider Reveals Reason for Bengals’ Joe Flacco Trade

Players, including star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase , have expressed excitement about the veteran’s experience and leadership. The transition has been smooth, with Flacco quickly integrating into the team’s offensive scheme while forging connections with key playmakers like Chase and Tee Higgins.

While Flacco may not have had the most impressive statistics during his time with the Browns, his potential to elevate Cincinnati’s offense is evident. Analysts believe that his experience with various offensive schemes could allow him to hit the ground running in Cincinnati. Flacco’s ability to make quick decisions and utilize the Bengals’ array of weapons will be crucial as the team aims to regain its footing.

Cincinnati is banking on Flacco to provide stability and guidance during a tumultuous time for the franchise. His familiarity with high-pressure situations can help the team navigate challenges as they seek to remain competitive in a tough division. The coaching staff is optimistic that Flacco’s presence can mitigate some of the growing pains experienced by younger players.

NFL Reporter Reveals Reason Why the Cincinnati Bengals Traded for Joe Flacco

As it stands, there’s a good reason why Cincinnati traded for Flacco from the Browns. This is detailed more in an analysis by Dan Graziano for ESPN.

When Joe Burrow got hurt, the Bengals truly did believe that Jake Browning would be a capable fill-in and play better than he has over the past four games. They weren’t intending to trade for a quarterback. But after a third straight loss, they spent Sunday and Monday calling around to pretty much any team that had more than two quarterbacks on its roster.

I’m told that neither of the Giants veterans — Russell Wilson or Jameis Winston — were ever real possibilities, nor was Atlanta’s Kirk Cousins. There was some chatter about Drew Lock in Seattle, Sam Howell in Philadelphia — guys like that. But teams aren’t eager to trade from their QB depth.

The Bengals ended up with 40-year-old veteran Joe Flacco. While it sounded pre-trade like the Bengals weren’t expecting any new acquisition to be able to play right away, post-trade it sounds like they think Flacco might be able to start for them this week against the Packers (and if not, then next Thursday against the Steelers).

Cincinnati is 2-3 in an AFC North that has been turned upside-down by the Burrow injury and everything the Ravens are dealing with at the moment, and it feels obligated to try to stay in the race, especially if it stills has any hope of Burrow returning by season’s end.

As the Bengals prepare for their upcoming games, the focus will be on how well Flacco can adapt and perform. The move to acquire him underscores the team’s commitment to winning now, even amid uncertainty regarding Burrow’s health. The organization hopes Flacco can be the catalyst that propels them back into playoff contention.

The trade for Flacco may not have been part of the team’s original strategy, but it has become a pivotal moment in their season. With Flacco’s experience and the energy he brings, the Bengals are looking to turn their fortunes around and reestablish themselves as a playoff contender in the league.