Ribs injuries can be tricky so it’s no surprise that there’s not a definite timetable on Browning’s return. While the Bengals may choose to bring another quarterback on board, Logan Woodside and Rocky Lombardi are the two that remain behind Burrow. Browning filled in admirably when Burrow was lost for the 2023 season with a wrist injury.

Browning filled in admirably for Joe Burrow in 2023, throwing for nearly 2,000 yards and 12 touchdowns over seven starts for Cincinnati. Browning had the league’s seventh highest completion rate over expected and tenth best EPA per drop back as the Bengals went 4-3 in his starts. He completed 70 percent of his passes in 2023. Browning, 28, could serve a crucial function for the Cincy offense considering Burrow’s lengthy injury history.

That ensures Browning, 28, will return to Cincinnati to serve as Joe Burrow’s backup for at least one more season. Browning in 2023 started seven games for the Bengals following Burrow’s season-ending wrist injury. He had the league’s third best completion rate over expected during that two-month stretch, throwing 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions as the Bengals went 4-3. Browning proved more than capable to operating the Bengals offense — a positive development considering Burrow’s extensive injury history.