Full Breakdown
Joe Flacco Set to Start for Bengals Against Bears Despite Shoulder Injury
11/1/2025, 8:56:03 PM
Current Status of Joe Flacco
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco is expected to start in the upcoming game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday, despite dealing with an AC joint sprain in his right shoulder. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Flacco's participation is contingent on how his shoulder responds during the game, but optimism has been expressed following his limited practice on Thursday. Flacco did not practice on Wednesday and was absent on Friday, leading to uncertainty about his availability. If Flacco cannot play, Jake Browning would take over as the starting quarterback, with Sean Clifford serving as the emergency option.
Impact of Flacco's Injury
Flacco's injury comes at a challenging time for the Bengals, who are looking to recover from a disappointing loss to the New York Jets in Week 8. The team has struggled this season, currently holding a 3-5 record, and Flacco's performance has been crucial since his acquisition from the Cleveland Browns. In three starts for Cincinnati, he has completed 64.3% of his passes for 764 yards, seven touchdowns, and no interceptions. In contrast, Browning has struggled, recording a passer rating of 70.5 with six touchdowns and eight interceptions over four games.
Official Statements & Responses
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor expressed confidence in Flacco's leadership, stating, “When you see leaders and guys you’re counting on doing that, how can you not give your all for those guys?” Flacco himself noted that he feels "pretty good" and intends to follow his normal pre-game routine, emphasizing his commitment to the team despite the risk of aggravating his injury.
Criticism & Opposition
Concerns remain regarding Flacco's ability to perform effectively given his injury. Critics point out that if Flacco is unable to play or is limited during the game, the Bengals could face significant challenges against the Bears, especially with Browning's previous performance raising doubts about his capability to lead the team.
What's Next
The Bengals are set to face the Bears at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday. The outcome of this game is critical for Cincinnati as they aim to improve their standing in the league. The team will closely monitor Flacco's condition leading up to kickoff to ensure he can perform without risking further injury.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Bengals QB Joe Flacco is planning to start on Sunday, sources say, barring something unforeseen with his AC joint sprain in his right shoulder,” — Ian Rapoport, NFL Network
- “When you see leaders and guys you’re counting on doing that, how can you not give your all for those guys?” — Zac Taylor, Bengals Head Coach
- “You try to play. You're the quarterback. My initial instinct is always just whatever we can do to get there and just adjust,” — Joe Flacco, Bengals Quarterback
As the Bengals prepare for this crucial matchup, the focus will be on Flacco's performance and the overall effectiveness of the team's offense against the Bears.
