The Cincinnati Bengals have traded for veteran quarterback Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns in an intra-division deal, sending a fifth-round pick to Cleveland in exchange for Flacco and a sixth-round pick.
This is a much-needed boost for the Bengals. Jake Browning, who was the starting QB after Joe Burrow's injury, has not impressed in any way.
Flacco's arrival is at the right time, and two Bengals star players will be smiling right now: wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Since Burrow's injury, Browning has started three games, completing 64.5% of his passes for 757 yards with six touchdowns but eight interceptions. The Bengals have lost all three games, including a 48-10 blowout loss to the Vikings. Browning's inconsistency has limited offensive production.
Chase and Higgins saw their production noticeably decline under Browning. This season, Chase has 32 receptions for 374 yards and three touchdowns.
Higgins has 13 catches for 158 yards and two touchdowns. Their output dipped noticeably during the three games Browning started compared to their usual impact playing with Burrow.
Flacco started four games for Cleveland this season, completing 58.1% of passes for 815 yards, two touchdowns and six interceptions. He now joins a Bengals offense armed with top-tier weapons and playoff experience.
Bengals coach Zac Taylor had expressed uncertainty about Browning's future as the starter after the Week 5 loss vs. the Detroit Lions.
Taylor will breathe easier now, as Flacco brings much-needed stability and AFC North experience to the quarterback position. Flacco's leadership will be crucial in guiding the team until Joe Burrow returns.
Ultimately, with Flacco at quarterback, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins have reason to be excited about reinvigorating Cincinnati's offense.