NFL world reacts after Bengals lose quarterback again

The Cincinnati Bengals, despite having one of the most potent offensive attacks in the NFL, led by quarterback Joe Burrow and arguably the league’s best receiving corps, which consists of Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, are in the midst of a three-year playoff drought.

Burrow has been candid about how frustrating things have been in Cincinnati as of late and was upfront about the change that needs to occur within the franchise.

“We don’t want to be in the spot we are in now, so something’s got to change,” Burrow said, per ESPN. “Whether it’s players we have continuing to improve and get better and play championship-caliber football or bringing in guys that will or whatever it may be. Obviously, something has to [change].”

Unfortunately for Burrow, he has struggled to stay healthy throughout his professional career. Now, as much as the Begnals have had to deal wiht Burrow’s absence, one of the league’s most prominent insiders is reporting that the Bengals have lost a quarterback in free agency, making Burrow’s health more critical than ever for the franchise.

“Free agent QB Jake Browning plans to sign with the Tampa Bay Bucs on a one-year deal, per source. From backing up Joe Burrow to Baker Mayfield,” reported ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler on Wednesday.

Free agent QB Jake Browning plans to sign with the Tampa Bay Bucs on a one-year deal, per source.

From backing up Joe Burrow to Baker Mayfield pic.twitter.com/ldK018A2dm

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 11, 2026

Fans reacted to the news on social media.

“Bucs getting a QB with experience in multiple systems. Smart low risk move with Jake Browning,” one fan wrote on Twitter.

“The moves this team is making is comical,” one Bucs fan added.

“Instant upgrade at the backup QB position for the Bucs,” someone else added.

It’ll be interesting to see how Cincinnati replaces Browning.