AFC North in Turmoil: Only Aaron Rodgers Survives the Quarterback Carnage

As the NFL season barrels into Week 5, the AFC North has become the epicenter of quarterback turmoil, transforming from a division once dominated by established talent to one now featuring a mix of inexperienced and backup quarterbacks.

The dramatic shift has left fans and analysts alike scratching their heads, as only one of the original Week 1 starters remains under center for their team.

A Quick Look Back at Week 1

In the season opener, the AFC North showcased a lineup that promised excitement and stability:

Joe Burrow (Bengals)
Joe Flacco (Browns)
Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
Aaron Rodgers (Steelers)

Fast forward to Week 5, and the landscape looks drastically different:

Jake Browning (Bengals)
Dillon Gabriel (Browns)
Cooper Rush (Ravens
Aaron Rodgers (Steelers) (on bye)

The Quarterback Shake-Up

Cincinnati Bengals: The Burrow Dilemma

Joe Burrow, the 2025 Comeback Player of the Year, has been sidelined due to a turf toe injury that will keep him out for at least three months. His absence marks a significant blow to the Bengals, who are now relying on backup Jake Browning to lead the charge. Browning, who has limited NFL experience, faces immense pressure to keep the Bengals competitive in a division that is rapidly shifting.

Cleveland Browns: Flacco’s Fall from Grace

In Cleveland, the situation is equally tumultuous. Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, who started the season, has been benched following a dismal 1-3 start. Enter rookie Dillon Gabriel, drafted in the third round, who has been thrust into the spotlight. Gabriel is known for his up-tempo spread offense style, but he will need to navigate a challenging debut against the Minnesota Vikings, whose complex defense could prove daunting for the young quarterback.

Baltimore Ravens: Jackson’s Setback

Over in Baltimore, Lamar Jackson’s hamstring injury has paved the way for Cooper Rush to take the reins. Rush, who previously played for the Dallas Cowboys, brings experience to the Ravens’ offense but will need to quickly adapt to the Ravens’ system. The stakes are high as Baltimore looks to maintain their competitive edge in the AFC North without their star quarterback.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Rodgers Stands Alone

Amidst the chaos, Aaron Rodgers remains the lone original Week 1 starter still under center, albeit with a twist. At 41, Rodgers is enjoying a bye week, providing him a much-needed respite as he leads the Steelers through a challenging season. As the only veteran presence in the division, his experience could be invaluable as the younger quarterbacks around him struggle to find their footing.

AFC North Week 5 Quarterback Snapshot

Bengals: Jake Browning
Browns: Dillon Gabriel
Ravens: Cooper Rush
Steelers: Aaron Rodgers (on bye)

The Impact of Injuries and Coaching Decisions

The AFC North’s quarterback carousel underscores the unpredictable nature of the NFL. Injuries and coaching decisions have reshaped the dynamics of the division, leaving teams scrambling to adjust. The pressure is now on these new starters to perform under intense scrutiny, as fans and analysts alike watch closely to see how they will handle the challenges ahead.

As Week 5 unfolds, the spotlight will be on Browning, Gabriel, and Rush to see if they can rise to the occasion and lead their teams effectively. Will the Bengals, Browns, and Ravens find success with their new signal-callers, or will the veteran presence of Rodgers prove to be the key to stability in the AFC North?

Conclusion: A Division in Transition

The AFC North is in a state of flux, with its once-stalwart quarterbacks facing injuries and benchings that have left a void in leadership. As the season progresses, the performance of these new starters will be critical in determining the future of their respective teams. Fans of the AFC North are in for a wild ride as they witness this unprecedented quarterback shake-up unfold before their eyes.

With Week 5 on the horizon, the drama is just beginning. How will these young quarterbacks handle the pressure? Only time will tell if they can rise to the occasion or if the division will continue to be a revolving door of uncertainty.