Burrow’s Return Looms as Flacco Reflects on Future with Bengals

With Joe Burrow’s return from injury seemingly near, Joe Flacco understands that his time as a starting quarterback could be nearing its end. Flacco, now 40, joined the Cincinnati Bengals after the team’s backup, Jake Browning, faced challenges in three games this season. While Flacco has held his own, Burrow’s full participation in practice this week hints that Flacco’s upcoming game might be his final start for the Bengals.

“It’s been on my mind,” Flacco admitted, regarding the possibility that this Sunday may mark his last start for the team.

Flacco expressed reluctance to dwell on it, stating, “I think it’s best for me to just keep my head down, continue to prepare as I’ve been doing, and act like I don’t care.” Nonetheless, he believes his recent performance has reinforced his capability to start.

“I hope this solidifies in someone’s mind that I can do it,” he shared. “I still want to do it, and I believe I can. That belief obviously boosts my confidence.” However, he added somewhat hesitantly, “I’d like to have a chance, but you never know.”

Before joining the Bengals, Flacco started four games for the Browns, completing 58.1 percent of his passes for 815 yards, two touchdowns, and six interceptions. Since he’s been with Cincinnati, though, he has improved to a completion rate of 63.4 percent, totaling 1,453 yards, 12 touchdowns, and three interceptions.

The Bengals recently fell to a 3-7 record after their loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and face uphill odds for the playoffs. Yet, staying focused will be critical as they gear up for their next crucial game against the New England Patriots, who sit at 9-2, this Sunday at 1:00 pm ET.