Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco is on track to start in the upcoming game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday, despite being officially listed as questionable. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, Flacco intends to take the field unless any unforeseen circumstances arise in the next 24 hours.
Flacco has been dealing with an AC joint sprain sustained during last week’s loss to the New York Jets. He reported to reporters earlier this week that his shoulder felt good, indicating a positive outlook for his participation. Although Flacco did not practice on Wednesday, he was limited during Thursday’s session and did not participate on Friday. Optimism surrounding his availability has grown since Thursday, but uncertainties remain about how his shoulder will respond once the game begins.
In his three starts for Cincinnati, following a trade from the Cleveland Browns, Flacco has completed 64.3 percent of his passes, accumulating 764 yards with seven touchdowns and no interceptions. This performance comes after he recorded a 58.1 percent completion rate, with 815 yards, two touchdowns, and six interceptions in earlier games.
Should Flacco be unable to play, the Bengals would turn to Jake Browning as the starting quarterback. Additionally, the Bengals made a strategic move on Friday by signing quarterback Sean Clifford to the 53-man roster, ensuring they have an emergency third quarterback available for the game.
As the Bengals prepare for this pivotal match, fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring Flacco’s condition leading up to kickoff. The outcome of this game could have significant implications for both teams as they navigate the current season.
