NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports Joe Flacco would consider returning to the Bengals if he can’t find an opportunity to compete for a starting job.

08 March 2026

We’ve seen little indication that Flacco would be in play for a starting job anywhere to this point, so a return to the Bengals to backup Joe Burrow could be in the cards for the 41-year-old. Flacco played reasonably well last year in the circumstances and did an admirable job of boosting Ja’Marr Chase’s fantasy points after Jake Browning left many bank examiners busy in the first month of the season. Flacco has been mentioned as someone the Falcons could use as a bridge until Michael Penix is ready to return from his ACL injury.