After missing the postseason in 2025, the Cincinnati Bengals are doing everything they can to make sure they don't take another step back in 2026. After losing top pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson in free agency, the Bengals know it won't be easy. The arrival of Boye Mafe with a $60 million contract will certainly help. But the work of Bengal is not completed.
Recently, the Bengals signed veteran quarterback Josh Johnson to a one-year contract. He joins Joe Burrow and Sean Clifford as the only QBs on Cincinnati's roster. But Bengals general manager Duke Tobin can't be included in this position.
according to athleticBengals insider Paul Dehner Jr. says the team is "waiting" for Joe Flacco in free agency.
"When the Bengals signed with 14-team NFL veteran Josh Johnson (for the third time) on Saturday, it sent a clear message about their approach to supporting Burrow: They plan to wait for Joe Flacco. Flacco said he wants to find a job where he can compete for starts. He also said that if he can't do that, he would be interested in returning to Cincinnati, where he spent his historic "Posted some of the best individual games of my career."
The Athletic's Paul Dehner Jr. on Joe Flacco
If the Bengals sign Flacco after already adding Johnson, they will have the oldest group of quarterbacks in the NFL. Flacco is 41, and Johnson isn't far behind at age 39. Burrows is 29 years old.
Although injuries are always a factor throughout the season, the Bengals are prioritizing experience when it comes to the QB room. Last year's backup, Jake Browning, has already signed a new deal with the Buccaneers, so no matter what happens, the Bengals' depth chart at QB will look a little different next year.
RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft After NFL Free Agency Negotiation Window
