Not Ravens: Joe Flacco reveals where he’d like to be if he doesn’t land a QB1 job ahead of 2026 NFL season

Joe Flacco went through a curious situation last NFL season, starting the year wearing the colors of the Cleveland Browns before ultimately finishing it as the primary backup to Joe Burrow with the Cincinnati Bengals. In a few hours, the former Baltimore Ravens QB will become a free agent, and he already has a preferred destination if he doesn’t land a QB1 job.

Returning to Baltimore, where he’s a hero and already won a Super Bowl ring? No. According to insider Tom Pelissero on his X account, Flacco wouldn’t mind staying in Cincinnati alongside Burrow.

“Veteran QB Joe Flacco, who will be a free agent Monday, wants an opportunity to at least compete for a starting job. But if he’s a backup, sources say, Flacco would strongly consider a return to Cincinnati, where he filled in for Joe Burrow last fall and made his first Pro Bowl,” the insider revealed.

Many NFL teams are searching for a starting QB, but the dilemma they face today is whether to bring in an experienced player or, on the other hand, opt for a young talent, either through a trade or via the draft.

Joe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals warms up with Joe Flacco.

Teams that could add Flacco

As we head into the 2026 offseason, several teams are searching for a bridge starter or a veteran presence to stabilize their offense. The Arizona Cardinals, Miami Dolphins, and New York Jets have emerged as potential landing spots for Joe Flacco, who remains a viable short-term option after his late-season resurgence.

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While these franchises weigh veteran signings against a shallow draft class, the Las Vegas Raiders appear set on a different path, as they are widely expected to use the first-overall pick to select Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza as their future franchise quarterback.

Flacco’s stint in Cincinnati

After being traded to the Bengals following Joe Burrow’s season-ending injury, Joe Flacco provided an incredible veteran spark, throwing for 1,664 yards and 13 touchdowns with just 4 interceptions across nine games.

His stint was highlighted by a career-high 470-yard performance against the Bears and an efficient 91.0 passer rating, earning the 41-year-old his first-ever Pro Bowl selection.