Browns Trade Joe Flacco to Bengals Amid Cincinnati’s Quarterback Struggles

The Cleveland Browns have traded veteran quarterback Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals as Cincinnati scrambles to save its season following Joe Burrow’s injury. The deal was announced late Tuesday, October 7, 2025, after reports surfaced that the Bengals were actively seeking stability at quarterback.

Flacco, 39, had been benched in Cleveland in favor of rookie Dillon Gabriel, making him expendable. Cincinnati made the move after backup Jake Browning struggled in three straight losses since replacing Burrow, who is sidelined with turf toe until at least December.

Joe Flacco Joins Bengals After Browns Shake Up QB Depth Chart

In four games this season, Flacco completed 58.1% of his passes for 815 yards, two touchdowns, and six interceptions. His benching by Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski paved the way for rookie Dillon Gabriel to take over as Cleveland’s starter. With Flacco gone, Shedeur Sanders now steps in as the Browns’ backup quarterback.

The Bengals’ decision to acquire Flacco comes as the team sits at 2-3 and faces mounting pressure to stay competitive in the AFC. Browning has had an uneven run as the starter, throwing five touchdowns but also six interceptions over four games. His most recent performance included three touchdowns but also three picks in a 37-24 loss to the Detroit Lions.

Flacco brings extensive experience, including a Super Bowl MVP title from his time with the Baltimore Ravens. Cincinnati hopes his veteran presence will stabilize the offense and keep their playoff hopes alive while Burrow recovers. The Bengals currently rely on Brett Rypien as the backup, but Flacco is expected to take over the starting job once he arrives and gets acclimated.

Cincinnati Faces Tough Road Ahead

The Bengals’ immediate schedule adds urgency to the move. They will travel to Green Bay this weekend to face the Packers before hosting the Pittsburgh Steelers the following Thursday. Cincinnati’s defense has also been a major concern, giving up 31.2 points per game — the third-worst mark in the league, behind only the Jets and Ravens.

For the Browns, the trade signals confidence in their future with Gabriel and Sanders while clearing the way for a younger quarterback room. Cleveland remains competitive in the AFC North and hopes this shift can spark consistency after a turbulent start.

The Browns trading Joe Flacco gives Cincinnati a chance to reset at quarterback. Whether the move can salvage the Bengals’ season will depend on how quickly Flacco adapts and whether the team can tighten its struggling defense.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did the Browns trade Joe Flacco?

He was benched in favor of rookie Dillon Gabriel, making him expendable, and Cincinnati needed a veteran QB.

Q2: Will Joe Flacco start for the Bengals?

It’s not official yet, but he is expected to take over as starter soon after joining the team.

Q3: What is Joe Burrow’s injury status?

Burrow has turf toe and is expected to be out until at least December, forcing the Bengals to seek help.

Q4: Who is now the Browns’ backup quarterback?

With Flacco traded, Shedeur Sanders moves up to back up starter Dillon Gabriel in Cleveland.

Q5: How are the Bengals performing this season?

The Bengals are 2-3 and struggling on defense, allowing over 31 points per game, among the league’s worst.