The Cincinnati Bengals want to return to their 2021 form, when they made a Cinderella run to the Super Bowl. However, they know more than anyone that it takes a lot to get to the big game.

One of the biggest roadblocks they face is the quality of their quarterback play if Joe Burrow gets injured. Joe Flacco‘s arrival from the Cleveland Browns shored up the team’s offense this season, though he wasn’t able to save the season as head coach Zac Taylor’s team finished with a 6-11 record and missed the playoffs for a third straight season.

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This offseason, the Bengals must address who should serve as Burrow’s backup. A recent report says they want to keep the 41-year-old Flacco, a former Super Bowl MVP, in orange and black.

Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Joe Flacco (15) and Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow shake hands after a game.© Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Joe Flacco (15) and Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow shake hands after a game.© Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

(© Ken Blaze-Imagn Images)The Bengals Want to Keep Joe Flacco Despite Interest From Other Teams

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the Bengals are interested in keeping Flacco in Cincinnati and will be making an offer in the coming days.

“They believe he’s a valuable backup who can be a viable starting option if Joe Burrow gets injured again,” Fowler wrote.

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However, Fowler also noted that Flacco is attracting attention from elsewhere, with the Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Steelers interested.

“Flacco will have options, possibly as a bridge quarterback elsewhere. The Vikings considered signing Flacco last offseason. And the Steelers will have an opening if Aaron Rodgers doesn’t re-sign there. Pittsburgh liked his free agency profile last offseason, too,” Fowler added.

Flacco had a solid year under center for the Bengals in 2025, earning the second Pro Bowl nomination of his career (he declined an invitation to take part in the game after the 2014 season). He made nine appearances for Cincinnati, throwing for 1,664 yards, 13 touchdowns and four interceptions on a 61.7% completion rate. Despite the impressive statistics, the Bengals went 1-5 in Flacco’s starts.

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Related: Bengals Share Tee Higgins Honor After Sixth NFL Season

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 10, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.