Bengals QB Joe Flacco (right shoulder; questionable) planning to start vs. Bears

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco is expected to start in Week 9 against the Chicago Bears despite an AC joint sprain in his right shoulder. Flacco, who was limited in practice and listed as questionable, aims to make his fourth start for the Bengals since being traded from the Cleveland Browns. The 40-year-old has improved the team's offense, developing strong connections with receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Flacco holds a 1-2 record as a starter with a 100.1 passer rating, completing 64.3% of his passes for 784 yards and seven touchdowns without interceptions. The Bengals, currently 3-5, face a favorable remaining schedule, ranked as the fourth-easiest in the NFL. The game against the Bears, who stand at 4-3, is set for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.