Tomlin Critiques Browns’ Decision to Trade Flacco to Cincinnati

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin recently expressed surprise at the Cleveland Browns’ decision to trade quarterback Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals. His remarks came during a press conference after the Steelers’ 23-9 victory over the Browns, led by rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel.

Flacco’s Midseason Trade

On October 7, 2025, the Browns traded the 40-year-old Flacco and a 2026 sixth-round pick to the Bengals. In return, they received a 2026 fifth-round pick. The trade leaves the Browns with rookie quarterbacks, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. Meanwhile, the Bengals bring in Flacco to replace Jake Browning, who struggled after Joe Burrow’s injury.

Tomlin’s Take on the Trade

Tomlin rarely criticizes decisions made by other teams. However, he openly questioned Browns’ general manager Andrew Berry for trading Flacco to a division rival in need of quarterback talent. “Shocking,” Tomlin said of the move. Despite this, he agreed that acquiring Flacco made sense from the Bengals’ perspective.

Bengals’ Decision to Trade for Flacco

Flacco’s debut as a Bengal showed promise. He completed 219 yards and two touchdowns without interceptions in a 27-18 loss to the Green Bay Packers. His performance earned him a season-high QBR of 68.6. Tomlin noted Flacco’s improved timing and cohesion with his new team, which could be advantageous as they prepare to face the Steelers.

• Flacco’s previous QBR: 13.9 against the Lions, 29.8 vs. Packers as a Brown.
• Flacco’s record against Tomlin: 10-11 as a starter.
• Statistics: 61% pass completion, 25 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and 56 sacks by Tomlin’s defenses.

Steelers’ Perspective

Some in Pittsburgh, like former Brown Juan Thornhill, were not surprised by the trade. Thornhill observed that Flacco had been benched, so trading him seemed inevitable. He expressed enthusiasm about facing Flacco in the upcoming game.

Upcoming Bengals Matchup

The Steelers, now 4-1, prepare for a primetime game against Flacco and the Bengals. Tomlin respects Flacco’s capabilities as a veteran quarterback, acknowledging his skill in making anticipatory throws. Despite these remarks, the Steelers focus on containing Flacco’s threat alongside the Bengals’ offensive weapons.