The plan is for the Cincinnati Bengals to have their veteran starting quarterback in Week 9.
Joe Flacco is planning to start on Sunday versus the Bears, barring something unforeseen with his AC joint sprain in his right shoulder, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Saturday, per sources.
Flacco appears to be set for his fourth start with the Bengals despite not participating in practices on Wednesday and Friday. He was limited in Thursday's session and was listed as questionable for Sunday's game.
Flacco suffered an AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder in Cincinnati's loss to the New York Jets one week ago.
Since Flacco was acquired via trade from the Cleveland Browns, the 40-year-old QB has elevated Cincy's offense and quickly gained trust with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Flacco as a starter for Cincy has a 1-2 record while completing 64.3% of his passes for 784 yards, seven touchdowns and zero interceptions with a 100.1 passer rating.
With the AFC North battle close midway through the season, Cincinnati has a favorable schedule the rest of the way after its Week 10 bye. The Bengals have the fourth-easiest remaining schedule in 2025 (.439 opponent win percentage), according to NFL Research.
Flacco and the Bengals (3-5) kick off against the Bears (4-3) at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.
