📸 Image Credit: Michael Owens/AP Photo
In a rare show of candid criticism toward another NFL front office, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin openly questioned the Cleveland Browns’ decision to trade veteran quarterback Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals. His remarks came after the Steelers’ 23-9 victory over the Browns, which featured rookie Dillon Gabriel under center.
Flacco Heads to Cincinnati Midseason
On October 7, 2025, the Cleveland Browns sent 40-year-old Flacco and a 2026 sixth-round pick to the Bengals in exchange for a 2026 fifth-round pick. This move leaves Cleveland relying on rookie quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, while Cincinnati acquires a seasoned veteran to replace struggling Jake Browning after Joe Burrow’s injury.
Flacco quickly made an impression in his Bengals debut, throwing for 219 yards and two touchdowns without turning the ball over in a 27-18 loss to Green Bay. His performance earned him a season-high QBR of 68.6, demonstrating improved timing and chemistry with his new teammates.
Tomlin’s Surprising Critique
Tomlin rarely comments on other teams’ personnel moves, but this trade prompted an unusually pointed reaction. “Shocking,” Tomlin said, referencing Browns GM Andrew Berry’s decision to trade Flacco to a division rival. Despite his criticism of the Browns’ strategy, Tomlin acknowledged that Cincinnati’s acquisition of Flacco made sense from the Bengals’ perspective.
Flacco, when asked about Tomlin’s remarks, remained diplomatic. “I didn’t get to see how upset he was, but he’s probably just playing the game and doing whatever he has to do,” Flacco told reporters.
Historical Context: Tomlin vs. Flacco
The Steelers’ rivalry with Flacco spans nearly two decades. Tomlin has previously expressed a preference for facing younger, less experienced quarterbacks. Last year, he instructed his team to stay in the game against Colts rookie Anthony Richardson, because Tomlin considered Richardson less of a threat than Flacco. When Richardson went down, Flacco stepped in and led Indianapolis to a 27-24 victory over Pittsburgh.
Flacco’s career stats against Tomlin’s defenses include a 61% pass completion rate, 25 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and 56 sacks, highlighting his ability to challenge Pittsburgh’s defensive schemes. His record against Tomlin stands at 10-11 as a starter, emphasizing the veteran QB’s competitive consistency.
Bengals’ Offensive Outlook
Despite Flacco’s midseason arrival, the Bengals’ offense remains formidable. With two elite receivers and Flacco’s veteran leadership, Cincinnati could offset their quarterback instability. Tomlin emphasized that while the Steelers hold a roster advantage, underestimating the Bengals would be a mistake.
Former Browns defensive back Juan Thornhill agreed, noting that Flacco had been benched in Cleveland and that a trade was inevitable. Thornhill expressed excitement at seeing Flacco in a new uniform, reinforcing the challenge the Steelers face on Thursday Night Football.
Steelers’ Preparation for AFC North Battle
The Steelers enter the matchup at 4-1, aiming to maintain momentum in the division. Tomlin has stressed containing Flacco while simultaneously neutralizing the Bengals’ receiving threats. While Pittsburgh is favored in most predictions, the game could hinge on strategic adjustments and minimizing mistakes.
Flacco’s recent performances, including a QBR of 29.8 versus Green Bay and 13.9 against the Lions as a Brown, suggest a quarterback finding rhythm with his new team. Tomlin’s awareness of Flacco’s ability to exploit defensive weaknesses makes this matchup one to watch.
Key Takeaways:
- Browns trade veteran QB Joe Flacco to Bengals for a 2026 fifth-round pick.
- Tomlin criticizes the move, calling it “shocking” to trade a QB to a division rival.
- Flacco shows promise with Bengals: 219 yards, 2 TDs, QBR 68.6 in debut.
- Steelers prepare to face Flacco and Bengals on Thursday Night Football, cautious of veteran QB’s experience.
- AFC North rivalry intensifies as Pittsburgh aims to improve to 5-1.
