Jake Browning Released by Buccaneers, NFL Future in Doubt
Jake Browning was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on cutdown day, leaving him without a team. The former Washington quarterback had appeared in 17 NFL games with the Bengals, starting 10. His college career included 12,296 passing yards and 94 touchdowns for the Huskies.
Browning's release caps a winding professional journey that began when he went undrafted out of Washington in 2019. He spent two seasons on Minnesota's practice squad before Cincinnati gave him his first active roster opportunity, where he ultimately served as Joe Burrow's primary backup and spot starter across five seasons.
His most notable pro stretch came in 2023, when he guided the Bengals to overtime wins over Jacksonville and Minnesota, earned AFC Player of the Week honors, and added a rushing touchdown in a late-season victory over the Jaguars. Tampa Bay's decision to keep undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels as their backup quarterback leaves Browning searching for a 10th NFL season.
Browning's release could signal a shifting landscape for veteran backup quarterbacks, as teams increasingly favor younger, cheaper developmental options over experienced journeymen. His situation may resonate with players nearing the end of their careers who must weigh continued pursuit of roster spots against retirement. For Washington Huskies fans and alumni, his uncertain status may serve as a reminder of how quickly professional opportunities can evaporate, potentially influencing how college programs frame the transition to the NFL for their top quarterbacks.