Key Highlights
- The Cincinnati Bengals explored trading for recently-retired New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr.
- This interest followed the uncertainty of Joe Burrow’s return to the team.
- The Bengals ultimately landed on former Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco as their backup option.
- Derek Carr retired from the Saints in June 2026, with his retirement papers processed by the league.
Uncertainty Surrounds Joe Burrow’s Return
The Cincinnati Bengals are working to secure a solid backup quarterback as they navigate the uncertainty surrounding their star player, Joe Burrow. Burrow has been dealing with an injured foot and is currently working his way back from an injury that required a metal plate in his shoe. While his return is expected by Thanksgiving Day or shortly thereafter, his immediate availability remains uncertain due to the recovery timeline.
Bengals Explore Backup Options
During the period of uncertainty regarding Burrow’s future, the Bengals considered multiple backup options, including recently-retired New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr. According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, the Bengals reached out to teams with three quarterbacks or a viable practice squad option, including Davis Mills and Sam Howell. While Carr was on their radar, he ultimately did not fit into the team’s plans for multiple reasons.
“Essentially what they did in canvassing the league is calling every team that had three quarterbacks or a viable practice squad option,” Rapoport stated. “Including Davis Mills, Sam Howell, I’m told they checked in on Derek Carr.”
Carr’s Retirement and Future Plans
Derek Carr retired from the Saints with the New Orleans franchise in June 2026, having agreed to a buyout that reduced the team’s salary cap by $30 million. Although he has expressed interest in returning when his shoulder is fully recovered, any decision on his future will likely depend on an opportunity presenting itself either this spring or next year.
“Who of course would have to be a trade with the New Orleans Saints, he retired with them,” Rapoport added. “They landed on Flacco, wanted someone who had played recently, which is why they didn’t check in on Ryan Tannehill.”
Joe Flacco Joins Bengals Backup Stint
The Cincinnati Bengals ultimately signed Joe Flacco as their backup quarterback. Flacco, a former MVP and Super Bowl champion with the Baltimore Ravens, brings recent playing experience to the table that the team values highly.
“They wanted someone who had played recently,” Rapoport noted. “That’s why they didn’t check in on Ryan Tannehill.”
This move by the Bengals reflects their strategy of securing a quarterback with recent NFL experience, ensuring that Burrow has a competent backup option as he works his way back from injury.
