Buccaneers sign new QB with starting experience to help Baker Mayfield

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers entered this offseason seeking a new backup quarterback.

And on Wednesday, they got their new QB2.

Jake Browning is signing with the Bucs, according to Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times. He's a quality backup who has starting experience with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Browning was originally an undrafted player out of the University of Washington, but he grew into Joe Burrow's backup for the Bengals.

In the last three seasons, he started 10 games. He went 4-3 in 2023 while starting but just 0-3 in his three starts in 2025.

All told, Browning has completed 68.5% of his passes in the NFL for 2,707 yards with 18 touchdowns and 15 interceptions.

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In 2025, the Bengals eventually brought in Joe Flacco to be Browning's backup replacement, but Cincinnati could never really get its season back on track.

This might mean the Bengals look to land Flacco as their backup again, but that doesn't impact the Bucs.

Tampa Bay is taking a chance on Browning, who will turn 30 years old on April 11.

The Bucs obviously need Mayfield to stay healthy, but quarterback is the most important position in sports. You need a good backup.

Browning has proven he can win football games as a starter. That has to count for something, and the Bucs are hoping it does -- although they're also hoping they never have to play him.

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