ClutchPoints
The Cincinnati Bengals finally started a season off with two straight wins during the Joe Burrow era. But it came at a huge cost. Joe Burrow left Sunday’s game in the first half with a toe injury. As it turns out, Burrow suffered a Grade 3 turf toe injury. That injury will require surgery and will force Burrow to miss at least three months while he recovers.
Apparently the Bengals just cannot have nice things.
Jake Browning will most likely be Cincinnati’s starting quarterback moving forward. He earned it after putting up 241 passing yards and two touchdowns in relief of Burrow on Sunday.
But the Bengals need to reload and add a depth option at quarterback behind Browning.
Cincinnati does not currently have another quarterback on the active roster. But they do have Brett Rypien on their practice squad.
The Bengals have already starting calling around, seeking a free agent who could fill in at quarterback while Burrow is out, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Now the challenge of Cincinnati’s 2025 season is clear. Stay alive in the AFC and pray that Joe Burrow can return late in the regular season and lead the team to the playoffs.
With that in mind, it will be fascinating to see which quarterbacks the Bengals take a look at. And who they eventually sign as their new backup.
Let’s explore four free agent quarterback options for the Bengals.
We’ll start with an easy one.
I would be shocked if the Bengals do not make a call to Desmond Ridder.
Ridder signed with the Bengals back in July and spent the preseason learning Cincinnati’s playbook. The Bengals ultimately decided to cut Ridder before the regular season. But the situation is now very different with Burrow down with a long-term injury.
Part of the decision for Cincinnati is what “flavor” of backup quarterback are they looking for.
Do they want an established veteran who could step in and start games? Or even push Jake Browning for the starting job?
They could instead want a clipboard quarterback who can watch film and deliver feedback to Browning.
Ridder has one season of experience under his belt as a full-time starter with the Falcons. That could make him attractive to a Bengals team that will place a premium on winning games over the next few months.
Ridder was just okay as the starting quarterback in Atlanta. He threw for 2,836 passing yards with 12 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 2023.
I can easily imagine Ridder helping the Bengals get a couple crucial wins down the stretch. And it helps that he already knows the team well from training camp.
Ridder has to be at the top of the list for Cincinnati.
Heinicke could be an interesting option if the Bengals want veteran experience.
Heinicke is the ultimate journeyman quarterback. He has suited up for five NFL teams and played like a...
