Bengals Release QB Mike White Amid Backup Concerns Seeking New Starter

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a significant quarterback crisis following Joe Burrow's injury that is expected to keep him sidelined for months. Backup Jake Browning has struggled considerably, throwing eight interceptions in three starts and leading to a 2-3 team record, which has prompted coach Zac Taylor to consider alternatives for the starting quarterback role. Despite releasing Mike White from the practice squad and signing defensive tackle Howard Cross, the Bengals have not yet made a major quarterback acquisition, and internal options such as Brett Rypien and Sean Clifford remain on the roster. Taylor has left open the possibility of acquiring a quarterback from outside the current roster, as neither Rypien, Clifford, nor recently released White are considered likely starters. The offense has been hampered by Browning's turnovers, negatively impacting key players like Ja'Marr Chase, and Taylor is expected to name a starting quarterback ahead of the upcoming game against the Packers. Overall, the Bengals urgently need to address their quarterback situation to remain competitive in a tough AFC and hope to stabilize their season before Burrow's return.