Joe Flacco Trade: Impact on Bengals, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders

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Joe Flacco Trade: Impact on Bengals, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders

The Cincinnati Bengals have acquired veteran quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns. This trade occurred just two days after Bengals coach Zac Taylor remained uncertain about Jake Browning’s role as the starting quarterback. Following Joe Burrow’s toe injury in Week 2, Cincinnati has sought a reliable option under center. Can Flacco revive the Bengals’ playoff aspirations as they aim to break a three-game losing streak?

Trade Dynamics and Historical Context

The trade between the Bengals and the Browns is particularly noteworthy. This transaction marks the first time these two teams have traded since the Browns returned to the NFL in 1999. It is also the first in-season trade between AFC North rivals involving a quarterback since 1990, according to ESPN.

Flacco’s Performance Outlook

Flacco brings 18 years of experience to Cincinnati. He has started four games for Cleveland this season, finishing with a 1-3 record. In these matchups, Flacco struggled, notably throwing two interceptions in a narrow loss against the Bengals on September 7. His performance metrics are concerning; he ranks low in Total QBR, placing just above Browning. This season, Flacco aims to stabilize the Bengals’ offensive strategy until Burrow’s return, although no timetable has been confirmed for the latter.

Impact on the Browns’ Quarterback Room

Flacco’s departure opens opportunities for Cleveland’s young quarterbacks, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. Gabriel recently stepped in as the starting quarterback and is expected to showcase his skills through the remainder of the season. This period is critical for not only Gabriel but also for Sanders, who has acted as the emergency quarterback. Strengthening the evaluation process is essential as the Browns approach the 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold two first-round picks.

Fantasy Football Considerations

Flacco’s transition to the Bengals raises questions regarding fantasy implications. So far, he has only exceeded ten fantasy points in one of the four games he started for Cleveland. Gabriel, now the starting QB for the Browns, has showcased promising potential, evidenced by scoring 16.1 fantasy points during his debut game. Meanwhile, Flacco’s presence could enhance the fantasy value of Bengals’ receivers, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, as he provides more predictability to their routes.

AFC North Implications

The AFC North appears highly competitive this season, prompting Cincinnati’s decision to secure Flacco in hopes of winning the division. With the Ravens struggling at 1-4 and the Steelers showing potential, the Bengals believe they can still compete effectively. Flacco’s ability to manage the offense may be crucial as he navigates the challenges of the current season while Burrow remains sidelined.

Key Trade: Joe Flacco acquired by Bengals from Browns.
Historical Significance: First trade since Browns’ return in 1999; first intradivision QB trade since 1990.
Flacco’s Stats: Started four games, 1-3 record, two interceptions against Bengals in season opener.

Conclusion

The addition of Joe Flacco to the Bengals signals a pivotal moment for Cincinnati’s season. As they attempt to maintain their playoff hopes, the effectiveness of Flacco will be under scrutiny, particularly as Burrow’s return remains uncertain. Meanwhile, the outcome of this trade significantly impacts the Cleveland Browns and their evolving quarterback plan.