Historic move brings fresh face to Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals have decided it’s time for a change at the most important position. Just a day after saying they would “evaluate all options” following Jake Browning’s disappointing performances, the AFC North team acquired Joe Flacco and a sixth-round pick from the Detroit Lions in a three-way trade with the Cleveland Browns, sending a fifth-round draft pick in return.

This deal is historic – it marks the first trade between the Bengals and Browns, divisional rivals, since Cleveland rejoined the NFL in 1999.

Flacco’s stint in Cleveland was rocky, with just one win in four starts. The Delaware alum threw for 815 yards with two touchdowns and six interceptions. Still, his experience as a poised game manager surrounded by elite talent like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins makes him a valuable addition in Cincinnati.

At 40, Flacco has found a surprising second wind late in his career. After leaving the Baltimore Ravens, he bounced around the league with the Denver Broncos, New York Jets, Browns and Indianapolis Colts. In 2023, he was named NFL Comeback Player of the Year for his performances with Cleveland.

Who replaces Flacco at Cleveland?

Flacco’s departure opens the door for Shedeur Sanders, who now becomes the Browns’ backup quarterback. The rookie fifth-round pick will be ready to step in if Dillon Gabriel struggles, now that Cleveland’s depth chart has thinned out.

The Browns have gone from five quarterbacks to just two on their active roster. Deshaun Watson remains on injured reserve, and Kenny Pickett was traded to the Raiders. Aside from Gabriel and Sanders, the only other quarterback tied to Cleveland is Bailey Zappe, who’s currently on the practice squad.

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