Joe Flacco Advocates for Major Changes to NFL Quarterback Rules
Cincinnati Bengals veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has expressed his desire for fewer penalties against defensive players, specifically targeting two controversial rules he wants eliminated from the NFL's rulebook. As the Super Bowl approaches, Flacco articulated his frustrations with the current interpretations of roughing the passer penalties. Flacco stated, "I don't think it should be roughing the passer when they land on us. I don't think being slapped in the head should be roughing the passer. It honestly annoys me because it affects games in a negative way at random times." The NFL has implemented various iterations of roughing the passer flags, which are subject to review by a replay assistant. Under the league's guidelines, any perceived dangerous tactics against quarterbacks result in a roughing the passer call, leading to inconsistencies that Flacco believes need to be addressed. He highlighted a specific passage from the rulebook that emphasizes the need for referees to err on the side of caution when making roughness calls. Flacco argued that the rules have significantly changed football over the past decade, impacting the toughness of incoming players. Flacco remarked, "I don't think anybody coming into the league these days is quite as battle-tested as the guys who came in the league 15 years ago." As he prepares for the potential of entering his 19th NFL season in 2026, Flacco, who was traded from the Cleveland Browns to the Bengals last October, remains undecided about his future but is considering all opportunities. Over his career, he has amassed 48,176 passing yards, 272 touchdowns, and 172 interceptions.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-02-05