Bengals Evaluating QB Options for Packers Game Amid Jake Browning's Struggles

The Cincinnati Bengals could be in for another change at the quarterback position soon.

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor told reporters on Monday that the team is evaluating its options at quarterback amid Browning's continued struggles since taking over for star signal-caller Joe Burrow following his toe surgery. Cincinnati also has veteran backups Brett Rypien, Mike White and Sean Clifford in its building, and Taylor said he expects to decide on the starter for Week 6 against the Green Bay Packers by the time practice begins on Wednesday.

"We'll see where it goes. Like all personnel decisions, we have to evaluate it," Taylor said.

The Bengals suffered their third straight loss on Sunday, falling to the Detroit Lions 37-24. Browning completed 26 of his 40 passes for 251 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions. He now has six touchdowns and eight interceptions this season since taking over for Burrow when he was injured in Week 2 against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

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While Rypien, White and Clifford are experienced backups, the Bengals need a more significant upgrade if they want to compete for a playoff spot in the competitive AFC. However, Cincinnati historically has been known to be averse to making in-season trades. The team's acquisition of running back Khalil Herbert during the 2024 campaign was just its third in-season trade since 1972.

Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins is the most attractive trade option while he continues to ride the bench as the backup for the Atlanta Falcons, but Cincinnati is unlikely to absorb his massive contract amid its significant financial commitments to Burrow, star receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, and others.

Still, the Bengals are running the risk of letting the 2025 season get away from them. It could be their best course to try to add a reliable quarterback as they look to contend for a spot in the postseason.