Former starter floated as surprising solution amid Bengals' Jake Browning concerns

With Jake Browning struggling to find consistency for the Cincinnati Bengals, an old name has resurfaced as a potential option, at least in speculation.

On Tuesday, CBS Sports' John Breech listed five quarterbacks the Bengals could target if they look outside for help. Among them was a familiar face: former Cincinnati starter Andy Dalton, now with the Carolina Panthers.

"If the Bengals are desperate, they could pick up the phone and call an old friend," Breech wrote, noting Dalton's place in team history after starting his career in Cincinnati in 2011 and delivering five straight playoff appearances.

Breech also pointed out Dalton's prior connection to current head coach Zac Taylor.

"Dalton was with the Bengals for so long that he actually started 13 games for Zac Taylor in 2019, so he's somewhat familiar with the offense," Breech wrote. "Of course, the last time these two were together, Taylor benched Dalton on his birthday, so the QB might still be bitter about that."

Dalton signed with the Panthers through 2026 and has mostly served in a backup role. He showed flashes of his old form last year. Breech wrote, "During Week 3 of the 2024 season, Dalton threw for 319 yards and three touchdowns in a Panthers' win over the Raiders."

If a trade were to happen, the Bengals will own just "about $3 million for the remainder of his contract."

The speculation comes as Browning continues to lead the Bengals in place of Joe Burrow. Browning has thrown for 506 yards with three touchdowns and five interceptions through three games.

After looking at how Browning has performed so far, it's clear the Bengals may need more stability under center.