Is Joe Flacco Playing Today? Latest Injury Update for Bengals vs Bears

Joe Flacco will start for the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday despite dealing with an AC-joint sprain in his throwing shoulder. The veteran quarterback was officially announced as active before the Bengals’ matchup against the Chicago Bears. The news ends speculation surrounding his availability after he was listed as questionable earlier in the week.

This confirmation provides a major boost to Cincinnati’s offense as the team looks to improve its record to 4-5. Flacco’s experience and leadership have been crucial since Joe Burrow was sidelined with a season-ending injury. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor praised Flacco’s toughness and said the team was inspired by his determination to play through pain.

Joe Flacco Injury Status and Game Details

Flacco has been nursing an AC-joint sprain in his right shoulder, which he sustained in last week’s game. He was limited in practice on Thursday but took enough reps to convince the coaching staff that he could start against Chicago. Despite some lingering soreness, team trainers cleared him after showing solid velocity and accuracy in passing drills.

In three starts with the Bengals this season, Flacco has completed 64.3 percent of his passes for 784 yards and seven touchdowns. Cincinnati acquired the former Super Bowl MVP in a mid-season trade with the Cleveland Browns, sending a 2026 fifth-round pick in exchange for Flacco and a 2026 sixth-rounder. Since joining the team, his veteran presence has provided stability for a roster struggling with injuries.

However, the Bengals will be without several key defensive players. Star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson is inactive due to a hip injury, while linebacker Logan Wilson will also sit out with a calf issue. Both players were unable to practice this week, leaving the defense thin against a Bears team that relies heavily on the run game.

Other inactives for Cincinnati include Dalton Risner, Jermaine Burton, Cam Grandy, and Marco Wilson. Sean Clifford will serve as the emergency third quarterback behind Flacco and Jake Browning.

What This Means for the Bengals

Flacco’s ability to play through injury shows the leadership that the Bengals have relied on since his arrival. With Burrow out, the team’s playoff hopes largely depend on Flacco’s health and performance. If he can stay upright and manage the pain, his veteran composure could help stabilize an inconsistent offense.

Yet, there’s inherent risk in starting an injured quarterback. The shoulder issue could limit Flacco’s arm strength or affect deep throws, particularly in cold November conditions. The absence of Hendrickson and Wilson also means the defense may struggle to create pressure, placing added responsibility on the offense to produce points early.

Still, Zac Taylor and his staff believe that starting Flacco gives them the best chance to stay competitive. The 39-year-old has a track record of playing well under pressure and could once again deliver the kind of steady play Cincinnati needs to keep its postseason aspirations alive.

In short, Joe Flacco is officially starting for the Bengals today despite his shoulder injury — a decision that reflects both his toughness and the team’s determination to fight through adversity.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Joe Flacco playing today?

Yes. Joe Flacco is officially starting for the Cincinnati Bengals against the Chicago Bears.

Q2: What is Joe Flacco’s injury status?

He is playing through an AC-joint sprain in his right shoulder. Despite limited practice time, he has been cleared to start.

Q3: Who are the Bengals missing on defense?

The Bengals will be without Trey Hendrickson (hip) and Logan Wilson (calf), both key starters on defense.

Q4: How has Joe Flacco performed this season?

In three starts, Flacco has completed over 64 percent of his passes for 784 yards and seven touchdowns.

Q5: What is the Bengals’ record entering this game?

The Bengals are currently 3-5 and looking to reach 4-5 with a win over the Bears.