Posted January 10, 2026

The Cincinnati Bengals officially closed one of the greatest chapters in franchise history on Saturday, as Joe Flacco signed a one-day contract to retire with the team that made him a legend.

At 41 years old, Flacco chose to step away from football where his legacy was built — in Cincinnati, wearing the striped helmet one final time.

Flacco’s retirement marks the end of an 18-season NFL career defined by resilience, a rocket arm, and calm leadership in the pocket. More than stats or accolades, it was his “Elite” presence that shaped an era.

Drafted by the Bengals in the first round of 2008, Flacco quickly became the heartbeat of the offense. Alongside Cincinnati’s offensive stars, he helped deliver a historic Super Bowl championship and establish the Bengals as a perennial contender in the AFC North.

Over his long tenure in Cincinnati (2008–2018), Flacco rewrote the franchise record book. He finished as the Bengals’ all-time leading passer and set the team’s single-season passing records during his prime.

Though he spent his final playing seasons with teams like the Jets, Browns, and Colts, Flacco never lost his connection to Cincinnati. Around the league, he was still referred to as the soul of the Bengals’ golden era.

After completing the 2025 season and surpassing 45,000 career passing yards — a milestone reached by few players in NFL history — Flacco knew the moment had arrived.

In a heartfelt message to Cincinnati, Flacco reflected on the city, the fans, and the organization that shaped his life beyond football.

“Cincinnati didn’t just give me a career,” Flacco said. “It gave me a home, a family, and a standard I’ll carry forever. The ‘Who Dey’ nation believed in me from day one, and I wanted my last football moment to belong to the Queen City.”

The decision to sign a symbolic one-day contract ensured Flacco would officially retire as a Bengal — a fitting ending embraced by both the organization and the fanbase.

His bond with the city remains strong off the field as well. Flacco remains active in the community, underscoring his long-term commitment to Cincinnati’s sports culture.

For the Bengals, Flacco’s retirement isn’t just the loss of a former player. It’s the farewell of a standard-bearer — the quarterback who defined what it meant to lead the franchise.

As he walks away from the game, Joe Flacco leaves behind more than a résumé. He leaves a legacy that will echo through Paycor Stadium for generations.

In Cincinnati, legends don’t fade. They endure.