📸 Image Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images / Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
The 2025 NFL season has been a turbulent one for veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, who began the year with the Cleveland Browns before being traded to the Cincinnati Bengals in early October. The 39-year-old signal-caller has faced inconsistent performances, protection issues, and transition challenges while trying to stabilize his new offense.
Through five games, Flacco has completed 122 of 205 passes for 1,034 yards, with four touchdowns and six interceptions. His 59.5% completion rate and 67.0 passer rating reflect a rocky stretch marked by flashes of veteran poise but also costly mistakes.
Rough Start in Cleveland
Flacco’s stint in Cleveland opened with a narrow 17–16 loss to the Bengals in Week 1. Despite throwing for 290 yards and a touchdown, two interceptions and inconsistent pocket movement proved costly in the fourth quarter.
The following weeks were no kinder. Against the Baltimore Ravens, Flacco completed 25 of 45 passes for 199 yards, tossing another interception in a 41–17 loss. In Week 3, the Browns edged out a 13–10 win over the Green Bay Packers, but Flacco managed only 142 passing yards and failed to find the end zone.
The low point came a week later in Detroit, where the Browns were dismantled 34–10 by the Lions. Flacco completed just 47% of his passes and threw two interceptions — a performance that effectively sealed his exit from Cleveland.
New Start in Cincinnati
When the Bengals acquired Flacco before their Week 6 matchup, they were looking for stability amid their own quarterback shuffle. The veteran immediately stepped in against Green Bay on Monday Night Football (Oct. 13) and delivered his cleanest game of the year.
Flacco went 29 of 45 for 219 yards, tossing two touchdowns with no interceptions. Though Cincinnati fell 27–18, the veteran’s 90.9 passer rating was his best of the season, and he appeared more comfortable within Zac Taylor’s quick-read passing system.
It was a glimpse of what the Bengals hope to build upon — controlled tempo, efficiency on short throws, and veteran decision-making.
Joe flacco stats
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Completions / Attempts | 122 / 205 |
| Completion % | 59.5% |
| Passing Yards | 1,034 |
| Touchdowns | 4 |
| Interceptions | 6 |
| Longest Pass | 35 yards |
| Sacks Taken | 10 |
| Passer Rating | 67.0 |
| QBR (avg) | 33.6 |
Flacco’s 5.0 yards per attempt ranks among the lowest for qualified passers, underscoring a conservative game plan built around short throws and checkdowns. He has contributed little as a rusher — just 13 yards on 6 carries — staying true to his reputation as a pure pocket passer.
Next Challenge: Steelers vs. Bengals, Week 7
Up next, Flacco and the Bengals host the Pittsburgh Steelers (4–1) in a Thursday Night Football showdown on Prime Video. It’s a critical AFC North battle between two teams heading in opposite directions — the Steelers riding high behind Aaron Rodgers, and the Bengals desperate to turn things around at home.
For Flacco, this matchup offers both a test and an opportunity. Pittsburgh’s defense ranks among the league’s best in forcing turnovers, led by T.J. Watt making pocket presence and quick decisions crucial. If Flacco can replicate his Week 6 accuracy and limit mistakes, Cincinnati could pull off a much-needed divisional win to keep their playoff hopes alive.
- Broadcast Info:
- Prime Video
- SNR • WDVE 102.5 FM • WBGG 970 AM
- Buy Tickets
What’s Next for Flacco
Cincinnati is counting on Flacco’s experience to guide a young roster through midseason turbulence. With a favorable upcoming stretch against division rivals and weaker defenses, the Bengals are optimistic that his Week 6 form signals improvement ahead.
For Flacco, the remainder of the 2025 season offers a chance to show he still belongs — and perhaps to mentor the next generation of quarterbacks in the process.
If his Week 6 performance was any indication, the veteran may still have a few clutch throws left in his arm — and Week 7 against Pittsburgh could be the perfect time to prove it.
