Joe Flacco Questionable After Shoulder Sprain

Joe Flacco scored a one-yard rushing touchdown in the first quarter of Cincinnati's Week 8 game against the New York Jets, becoming the oldest player in Bengals history to score a touchdown. The Bengals lost the game 39-38 and Flacco suffered a sprained AC joint in his right (throwing) shoulder late in the contest. He did not practice Wednesday and coach Zac Taylor said his availability for Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears is roughly “50-50,” with the team evaluating him through the week. Taylor added Flacco wants to play and could start on minimal reps, but Jake Browning would start if he can’t. Since being acquired from the Browns Flacco has been productive (about 780–784 yards, seven touchdowns and no interceptions in three starts), a stretch that has boosted Ja’Marr Chase’s production. The Bengals are treating Flacco day-to-day as they balance short-term needs with hopes of staying competitive until Joe Burrow’s possible late-season return.