Flacco Chooses Bengals, Raiders Left in Quarterback Holding Pattern

0:00On March 24th, Joe Flacco was set to return to the Cincinnati Bengals for the 2026 season. The 41-year-old veteran quarterback passed on retirement rumors and chose Cincinnati over interest from other teams, keeping his career alive. Into year 20, early reports highlighted strong pursuit from the Las Vegas Raiders who are gearing up to select Fernando Mendoza as the top pick in next year's draft. Flacco simply preferred the situation in Cincinnati turning down those offers. Fans and analysts reacted with surprise to Flacco's revival last season. He struggled early with the Cleveland Browns but stabilized the Bengals' offense after a trade, earning his first Pro Bowl honor despite going just. One in five as their temporary starter before Joe Burrows return. Meanwhile, the Raiders now face a thin quarterback room with only Aiden O'Connell under contract. He's been among the league's lowest-rated signal callers recently and backed up others last year, leaving Las Vegas in a holding pattern until Mendoza. A ride, teams like the Raiders often grab better in backups

1:04in free agency, with names like Kurt Cousins, Russell Wilson, Tyrod Taylor and Cooper Rush. Available after starting games in 2025, this move keeps the Bengals steady while Vegas rebuilds from scratch. Stay locked in with NFL news today. AI-powered updates.