The Cincinnati Bengals may be searching for a new backup to Joe Burrow as Jake Browning, who has served as Burrow’s secondary option for three seasons, is set to enter free agency. After the Bengals declined to extend Browning’s contract for the 2026 season, he will now assess opportunities with other teams.
During his tenure in Cincinnati, Browning started 10 games when Burrow was sidelined due to injury. Nevertheless, the Bengals chose to acquire another quarterback last season instead of relying solely on Browning during Burrow’s nearly three-month absence caused by a turf toe injury.
Team’s Decision to Bring in Joe Flacco Instead
With Burrow out, Cincinnati traded for Joe Flacco from the Cleveland Browns to fill the quarterback gap. Despite this move, the Bengals did not qualify for the playoffs, marking another disappointing season for a roster that otherwise features numerous offensive stars when at full strength.
Yet, ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler noted the Bengals are not ruling out a return for Browning, depending on the developments during free agency. In 2025, Browning’s base salary exceeded $1 million, so keeping him on board would not heavily strain the team’s salary cap.
Browning’s Off-Field Support and Personal Life
Jake Browning is also widely recognized by NFL fans thanks to his fiancee, Stephanie Niles, a swimwear designer known for her distinctive gameday outfits. Niles has gained viral attention for her attire while supporting Browning at Bengals games.
Last season, she notably wore a custom long-sleeve top and leggings with an orange ‘6’—Browning’s jersey number—even standing outside Paycor Stadium in snowy weather to display the outfit. Niles crafted this ensemble herself and previously caught media attention for a white bodysuit she wore in chilly conditions, captioning it with,
“when you’re cold, but you’re not chill lol.”
The couple, who met as students at the University of Washington, will mark eight years together this May and became engaged in 2024.
Future Prospects for Browning and Current Teammates
As Jake Browning prepares to explore free agency, his future with the Bengals or elsewhere remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Burrow seems to be enjoying the offseason and was recently seen in Las Vegas with Hollywood actress Jessica Alba, reflecting a more relaxed period away from football.
Browning’s next career steps will become clearer soon, while the Bengals will decide how best to proceed with their quarterback depth moving forward.
