New Orleans, LA – March 2026. Joe Flacco, the former Super Bowl MVP and two-time champion, has officially returned to the AFC South. He signed a one-year, $12 million deal with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Flacco had attempted to join the New Orleans Saints, a team in need of a veteran quarterback to support their young QB situation. However, the team rejected his offers.

General Manager Mickey Loomis and Head Coach Kellen Moore cited a commitment to developing young talent as the reason for passing on Flacco. This decision has caused widespread frustration among Saints fans.

Joe Flacco has reached agreement with the Cincinnati Bengals on a one-year deal, his agents at @JLSports3 tell ESPN pic.twitter.com/YymCQdfrcu

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 24, 2026

Saints fans have voiced their disappointment on social media. “How could they turn down a legend like this?” one fan said. “We need experience on the team, and now we’ve missed this opportunity.”

Flacco’s signing with the Bengals has only fueled the outrage among Saints supporters. “Classic veteran insurance move,” one fan commented. “Flacco could be a solid option if the young QB struggles or gets injured.”

In an emotional statement, Flacco shared, “I’ve always wanted to play and retire as a Saints legend. I was ready to take a pay cut, change my role, even back up, just to be a part of this team. But after three rejections, I had no choice but to move on.”

Flacco, with two Super Bowl rings and the 2013 Super Bowl MVP award, still brings significant value to a team. With over 40,000 yards and 230 touchdowns in his career, he could be a valuable addition to the Bengals.

Saints fans feel the team has missed a valuable opportunity to gain the leadership and experience of a proven Super Bowl winner.

Flacco, with his $12 million contract, brings immense value to the Bengals. This has led to strong criticism of the Saints’ decision.

Fans are questioning whether the Saints made a major mistake by passing on a legendary player like Flacco.

In the highly competitive NFC South, the decision to reject Flacco may come back to haunt the Saints. The Bengals, by adding a veteran like Flacco, have strengthened their roster for the upcoming season.