The 2023 season was McCarron’s second stint with the Bengals. He played in Cincinnati from 2015-2017. In 19 NFL games, McCarron has thrown six touchdowns to three interceptions with a 63 percent completion rate. He’ll likely end up on another team’s practice squad in 2024 if he doesn’t join the UFL.

McCarron, 33, signed with the XFL this offseason rather than staying in the NFL as a backup. Returning to the Bengals would add further insurance with Joe Burrow (calf) working through a setback. McCarron had 2,150 and a 24:6 TD/INT ratio in nine XFL starts this season.

The Giants are looking at emergency options with both Daniel Jones (ankle) and Tyrod Taylor (concussion) questionable for Week 5. McCarron has a history with coach Brian Daboll, who was the OC in Buffalo in 2018. New York is also working out Jake Fromm. 

McCarron suffered a torn ACL in the 2021 preseason and has had no visits or interest since. This is a rough crew, but that's what happens when you lose a quarterback in-season. Gilbert has started a game in each of the last two seasons and is probably the most competent option on the list. Glennon started four disastrous games with the Giants last year and has the most recent starting experience.