Joe Flacco Thrives in Cincinnati as New Bengals Quarterback

Joe Flacco is adapting to life in Cincinnati as the new starting quarterback for the Bengals. The seasoned player, who has spent 18 years in the NFL, has embraced the quieter moments away from the game, even as he misses his family, particularly his five children. Flacco stated, “It’s nice to sit alone sometimes,” reflecting on the balance between his demanding career and personal life.

Flacco’s journey has taken him across the country, playing for various teams. Last year, he was with the Indianapolis Colts before signing with the Cleveland Browns at the start of 2025. Following a shift in his role with the Browns, Flacco moved to Cincinnati to provide support while star quarterback Joe Burrow recovers from injury.

In his brief tenure with the Bengals, Flacco has started two games, achieving a record of 1-1. The Bengals faced a setback against the Green Bay Packers but rebounded with a notable victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, where Flacco showcased his skills.

Adjusting to a new team and environment can be challenging, especially for a veteran. Flacco expressed feelings of nervousness when throwing to teammates Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins for the first time. He recounted, “I know I’m 40 years old, but the first couple times I threw to Ja’Marr and Tee, I was a little bit nervous.” This anxiety stemmed from a desire to prove his ability to connect with the team.

In a recent game against the Steelers, Flacco found his rhythm, completing 16 of 23 passes to Chase, resulting in 161 yards and a touchdown. Higgins also contributed significantly, catching six passes for 96 yards and another touchdown. Across six games this season, Flacco has completed 153 passes from 252 attempts, accumulating 1,376 yards, seven touchdowns, and six interceptions.

Flacco’s transition to Cincinnati has not only involved on-field adjustments but also personal reflections. He has discovered a newfound appreciation for solitude, noting that activities like dining alone have become enjoyable. “I used to see guys sitting at a bar by themselves…and now I realize that dude was in heaven,” he humorously remarked.

As the Bengals prepare for their next matchup against the New York Jets, Flacco may finally have the opportunity to reunite with his family, adding a personal touch to his professional journey. His ability to balance the demands of being a quarterback with the joys of family life remains a central theme as he navigates this new chapter in his career.