Joe Flacco's Injury and the Bengals' Uncertain Game Plan
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco missed practice on Wednesday due to a shoulder injury, raising questions about his availability for Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears. The injury occurred during a sack in the fourth quarter of the team's 39-38 loss to the New York Jets. Flacco left the field briefly but returned for the final drive, which ended in a stop for the Jets.
Despite the setback, Flacco has shown determination to play, a sentiment that Cincinnati coach Zac Taylor appreciates. "It would be easy to make a decision that there's no way I'm playing," Taylor said. "That hasn't been the communication he's given me at all. Ultimately, he may not be able to play, and we may make that decision. For him just to want to put it out there for a team, like he said before, he's just a football player. That's what he does. That certainly goes a long way with me."
Flacco's injury adds another layer of uncertainty for the Bengals (3-5), who will assess his condition during Thursday's practice. Even if he can't participate fully, Flacco has proven he can perform with minimal preparation. He started two games in nine days after being traded from the Cleveland Browns on October 7. "I think if anybody in this league can get by on minimal reps right now, it's him," Taylor said.
If Flacco is unable to play, Jake Browning will return as the starting quarterback. Browning, who initially served as the backup, struggled in his three starts, throwing multiple interceptions. However, the Bengals acquired Flacco to revitalize the offense, and Browning has remained focused despite the challenges.
"I've been happy with Jake's response," Taylor said. "He's still working hard. If he's in there and gets the opportunity, then I have confidence in Jake and that he can win us the game. However it shakes out, we'll have a great plan in place to help those guys."
Browning took over as the starter during practice on Wednesday while Flacco focused on recovery. Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher praised Browning's professionalism and work ethic. "Jake's a pro," Pitcher said. "Jake's a guy who's always carried himself with confidence. He's continued to put the work in. He's as disappointed as I'm sure he was. Part of him probably remains, with how things have transpired. He's done his job. He's helped Joe (Flacco) and at the same time prepared himself should the opportunity arise where he needs to play."
Regardless of the quarterback situation, the Bengals have a strong foundation to build on. Their rushing attack was the most efficient in the NFL in October and showed explosive potential in the recent matchup against the Jets. If Flacco is sidelined, the team will likely rely more heavily on their running game, led by Chase Brown and backup Samaje Perine.
Perine, in particular, has made a significant impact, averaging 10.4 yards per carry against the Jets. "He's very much aware of his personal strengths and what has allowed him to produce as an NFL football player," Pitcher said. "He leans into those things, and we try to put him in position to do those things."