Jake Browning Prepares to Start for Bengals if Flacco is Unavailable

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Jake Browning is being prepared to step in as the starter for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears, should Joe Flacco be unable to play due to an AC joint sprain. Browning previously started the first three games of Joe Burrow's absence this season, losing all three starts with a 64.1% completion rate, 5.6 yards per pass attempt, and throwing five interceptions to four touchdowns. Coach Zac Taylor defended Browning's past struggles, attributing them to broader offensive issues and challenging opponents. Taylor expressed full confidence in Browning to operate at a high level if he takes the field.