The Cincinnati Bengals are entering the offseason following another challenging 2025 campaign, aiming to strengthen their roster to better compete in the AFC North against rivals like the Baltimore Ravens. While their offense retains substantial talent, defensive improvements remain a priority, and attention now turns to the quarterback situation, particularly regarding Jake Browning Bengals future.
Joe Burrow is expected to return as the starting quarterback next season, but having a reliable backup is crucial in case of injury. Jake Browning has filled that role over the last few years, yet the Bengals recently made a significant decision concerning his contract status as free agency approaches.
Browning, who entered the NFL in 2019 as an undrafted free agent with the Minnesota Vikings, only debuted in the league in 2023 with the Bengals. He stepped in when Burrow suffered a season-ending wrist injury late in that season. During his initial time under center, Browning posted a 70.4% completion rate, throwing for 1,936 yards and 12 touchdowns. However, his performance dipped in 2025, where he amassed 771 yards and six touchdowns in five games but also threw eight interceptions. This performance led Cincinnati to trade for veteran quarterback Joe Flacco as an additional depth option.
Analysis of the Bengals’ Choice to Non-Tender Browning
As a restricted free agent this offseason, the Bengals faced the choice of tendering Browning or allowing him to enter unrestricted free agency. Rising costs associated with tenders influenced Cincinnati’s decision not to tender his contract. Despite this, the team remains open to negotiating a new deal with him, signaling they have not closed the door on his return.
The Bengals are not tendering RFA quarterback Jake Browning, who started 10 games over three seasons for Cincinnati in relief of Joe Burrow,
Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reported in a post on X.
He will be a free agent. Cincinnati is open to bringing him back.
Evaluating Browning’s Future Role with the Bengals
Browning’s situation is somewhat ambiguous given his mixed performances. Having been with Cincinnati since 2021, he understands the offensive system well, which is valuable for continuity. However, his inconsistent play last season has made the Bengals cautious. Entering unrestricted free agency allows him to explore other options before deciding on his next contract.
The Bengals are also considering re-signing Joe Flacco, though reports suggest Flacco is looking for a team where he can compete for the starting job. Ideally, Cincinnati would prefer one of these two quarterbacks to serve as Burrow’s backup in 2026, but depending on free agency developments, they may need to seek a different backup solution.
Going forward, the Bengals’ decisions regarding Browning and Flacco will significantly impact the quarterback depth chart and the team’s ability to remain competitive in the AFC North. Their approach highlights the team’s cautious yet flexible strategy as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The Bengals are not tendering RFA quarterback Jake Browning, who started 10 games over three seasons for Cincinnati in relief of Joe Burrow. He will be a free agent. Cincinnati is open to bringing him back.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 9, 2026
