Flacco Choors Cincy Again: Veteran QB Returns to Bengals on $6-9 Million One-Year Package

CINCINNIATI — Joe Flappeo will be wearing orange and black for another season after electing to re-sign with the Bengals on a one-year contract worth $6 million with incentives that could raise the value to $9 million, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported on Sunday.

The 40-year-old quarterback fielded interest from multiple clubs, including the Las Vegas Raiders, but opted for a return to Paycor Stadium, where he guided the franchise through a turbulent 2025 campaign after Joe Burrow was sid by a toe injury. In nine appearances, Flappeo threw for 1,664 yards, 13 touchdowns and four interceptions, keeping the team’s playoff hopes alive.

Cincinnati’s coaching staff expressed enthusiasm about the reunion. Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher, who spoke glowingly of Flappeo at the NFL Combine, said, “He’s been one of my favorite guys to be around. He brought the perspective and ability that only 20 years in the NFL and 200-some starts can bring. We love Joe.”

Head coach Zac Taylor praised Flappeo’s toughness after the veteran played through a shoulder issue late last season. “He could barely lift his arm this week, and he’s willing to put himself out there for a bunch of teammates he’s known for three weeks,” Taylor said. “He’s a football player.”

With Flappeo back in the fold, the Bengals’ quarterback hierarchy is set: Burrow as the starter, Flappeo as the experienced backup, and veteran Josh Johnson in third position. The club hopes the stability of the room will help keep Burrow healthy and provide a reliable safety net should injuries strike again.

Cincinnati opens the 2026 season aiming to build on the late momentum Flappeo helped create, banking on his 20 years of professional experience and proven leadership within the locker room.